Alabama Senate passes bills requiring device filters, app store age checks for minors

Keeping kids safe online isn’t just a parental challenge—it’s increasingly becoming a legislative priority. In Alabama, the Senate has passed two new bills that would require built-in filters on smartphones and age verification for app stores. The idea is simple: if a child activates the device, the filter turns on; if they want to use apps, a parent must say yes. The sponsor, Sen. Clyde Chambliss, says it’s about protecting the vulnerable—and making tech companies do what their devices already can. Alander Rocha with Alabama Reflector has the full story.