Tech Group Sues Utah Over Law Requiring Age Verification for App Downloads

The lawsuit claims the state's new law violates free speech rights of app stores and developers.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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A technology industry group has filed a lawsuit against the state of Utah, challenging a new law that requires app stores to verify users' ages before they can download smartphone applications. The Computer and Communications Industry Association claims the law amounts to 'censorship' and violates the First Amendment.

Why it matters

This lawsuit highlights the ongoing tension between state governments seeking to protect minors online and tech companies that argue such regulations infringe on free speech rights. The outcome could set an important precedent for how states can regulate app stores and online content access.

The details

The lawsuit was filed in federal court against Utah Attorney General Derek Brown and the director of the state's Division of Consumer Protection. It claims the App Store Accountability Act, approved by Utah lawmakers last March, imposes unconstitutional 'age-gating hoops' that app stores and developers must jump through to continue providing access to online speech. The law is set to take effect on May 6.

  • The App Store Accountability Act was approved by Utah lawmakers in March 2026.
  • The age verification requirements for app stores are scheduled to take effect on May 6, 2026.

The players

Computer and Communications Industry Association

A technology industry group that filed the lawsuit against Utah.

Derek Brown

The Utah Attorney General, named in the lawsuit in his official capacity.

Todd Weiler

The Utah state senator who sponsored the App Store Accountability Act, defending it as a measure to protect children.

Mike Schultz

The Utah House Speaker, who expressed disappointment in tech companies and support for the age verification law.

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What they’re saying

“This Utah law raises many of the same constitutional concerns that caused another court to block the Texas app store law. When a state erects a barrier to the vast library of online speech unless the speaker jumps through a series of age-gating hoops, it must receive exacting constitutional scrutiny.”

— Stephanie Joyce, Senior Vice President, Computer and Communications Industry Association (KSL)

“Parental rights are not up for debate. I am proud this law has the support of hundreds of child safety and advocacy organizations across the country. I look forward to winning this tech lawsuit and delivering greater tools for Utah parents to protect their kids in our digital world.”

— Todd Weiler, Utah State Senator (KSL)

“I think age verification makes sense, and I think putting parents in control makes sense. I'm really disappointed in the technology companies.”

— Mike Schultz, Utah House Speaker (KSL)

What’s next

The lawsuit will be heard in the U.S. District Court in the District of Utah. The outcome could set an important precedent for how states can regulate app stores and online content access.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing clash between state governments seeking to protect minors online and tech companies arguing such regulations violate free speech rights. The court's decision could have far-reaching implications for the balance of power between states and the tech industry when it comes to regulating digital platforms and content.