2/12/2026

MADISON - The Wisconsin State Assembly Committee on Children and Families advanced two bills on Tuesday, aimed at protecting children when they use online platforms and apps.  Assembly Bill 962 and Assembly Bill 963 both target different aspects of children’s online safety.  Assembly Bill 962 creates new requirements for app-store developers and providers. The bill requires app stores to verify the age of someone creating an account, and if the person is a minor, parents would need to provide consent to purchase or download any apps.  Assembly Bill 963 requires major social media platforms to obtain parental consent for minors to use their apps. The bill also prohibits what lawmakers call addictive features, including infinite scrolling and autoplay videos and allows minors and their parents to sue companies that knowingly commit violations for damages.  Both bills are now referred to the Assembly Committee on Rules before a potential Assembly vote. If they pass, they will head to the Senate for the next vote.  Wisconsin Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force data shows the average child uses about 40 apps a day.