On March 3, 2025, the Minnesota State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 2105, aimed at enhancing age verification processes for online commercial entities. The bill seeks to address growing concerns about minors accessing age-restricted content on the internet, particularly in light of increasing reports of underage users engaging with inappropriate material.

The key provisions of Senate Bill 2105 include a requirement for commercial entities to implement reliable methods for verifying the age and identity of users. The bill grants the commissioner of commerce the authority to approve various age verification methods, which are not subject to the usual rulemaking provisions. This flexibility is intended to encourage the adoption of effective verification technologies while ensuring compliance with privacy standards.

A significant aspect of the bill is its emphasis on data privacy. It mandates that commercial entities must not retain any identifying information submitted for age verification. Violations of this provision could lead to civil liability for damages, including attorney fees, if a commercial entity is found to have retained such information unlawfully.

Enforcement mechanisms are also outlined in the bill. Individuals who access websites without proper age verification can report violations to the attorney general, who is empowered to investigate and initiate civil enforcement actions. Additionally, parents or guardians of minors can pursue legal action against entities that fail to comply, with potential penalties reaching up to $25,000 per violation.

The introduction of Senate Bill 2105 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and stakeholders. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to protect minors from harmful content online, while critics express concerns about the feasibility of implementing stringent age verification measures without infringing on user privacy rights.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications could extend beyond age verification, potentially influencing broader discussions on internet safety, data privacy, and the responsibilities of online platforms. The outcome of Senate Bill 2105 may set a precedent for how age verification is handled in Minnesota and could inspire similar legislative efforts in other states.