System76 CEO Calls Out Colorado, California, and New York Age Verification Laws as Threats to Open Computing

System76 CEO Carl Richell published an op-ed arguing that age verification laws in Colorado (SB 26-051), California (AB 1043), and a proposed New York bill (S8102A) impose unrealistic and counterproductive compliance requirements on Linux distributions and open computing ecosystems. The California and Colorado laws require OS-level age bracket reporting to apps and websites, while New York's proposed bill would require all adults to prove their age to use internet-connected devices — with no self-reporting allowed. Richell notes that Linux distributions not providing age bracket signals may deliver users a degraded browsing experience if the attestation method becomes standard, and that System76 will comply with law while hoping the bills are ruled unconstitutional.

Key Takeaways

• Colorado SB 26-051 and California AB No. 1043 require OS accounts to report age brackets to apps and websites; New York's proposed S8102A would require biometric or ID-based age proof just to use an internet-connected computer, exercise bike, or car
• Linux distributions not reporting age bracket signals could result in apps/websites defaulting to minimum (child) age tier for their users — commercially disadvantageous for distros that don't add compliance features
• System76 CEO Richell argues the laws are ineffective (kids can lie or use VMs), damage open computing ecosystems disproportionately, and may be unconstitutional; NY bill could make any Linux distro downloader technically the "device manufacturer" under the law

Original source: System76 Blog