Bluesky has decided to block access from Mississippi IP addresses due to a new state law that mandates age verification and parental consent for underage users. The law, HB 1126, requires the platform to collect sensitive information and track which users are minors, posing significant privacy and operational challenges. Bluesky’s small team currently cannot develop the extensive verification and compliance systems needed. The decision remains until courts rule on the law’s constitutionality, which is currently under challenge after the Supreme Court allowed it to go into effect. This access restriction specifically applies to the Bluesky app, while other platforms on the AT Protocol will decide independently. Bluesky emphasizes its commitment to child safety while advocating for user choice and innovation amid evolving regulations.
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