WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – With just a few days left in the Kansas legislative session, one bill that’s getting a lot of attention is one that would require kids to get their parents’ consent to download an app.
While many are wondering about the practicality of the App Store Accountability Act, some parents are hoping lawmakers pass it.
The parents say it’s necessary to protect their kids from seeing inappropriate content.
“A bill where that could be monitored is a long time coming,” mom and educator Jennifer Beesly said.
Beesly said that all kids have to do now to download an app is like about their age.
“Currently the way apps work on our phones, that restriction age is much younger,” Beesly said. “And so for kids that want to download apps, they typically don’t have a lot of guardrails.”
The bill would require people to upload a government-issued ID or do a face scan to prove their age and identity. Those opposed to the bill say it’s an example of government overreach.
“I feel like that’s kind of a lot of information to give out, I know it’s for the safety of our kids, but I don’t know about that part,” another parent, Heather Gonzalez, said about the requirements.
Gonzalez said there are other options that don’t involve uploading an ID.
“I have a parent account and (my daughter) has a child account,” Gonzalez said. “I have to approve every app, but it doesn’t need my ID.”
The bill’s supporters acknowledge these concerns, with Beesly saying, “That’s something that might have to be worked out.”
But those in favor are watching closely and hoping legislators pass the bill.
“I would hope that we would take a stand that will help our children in the future. If this is one step forward, I encourage us to take that step.”
The bill is not yet scheduled for a vote, but there are still three days left, and House leadership can schedule it for a debate anytime.