In a landmark 6–3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld Texas House Bill 1181, marking a major victory for parental rights, child protection, and online accountability. The law, passed during the 88th Legislative Session, requires websites with more than one-third of their content deemed “harmful to minors” to verify the age of all users through reasonable means, such as photo ID.


The issue had made its way to the nation’s highest court after being challenged by the adult entertainment industry, which argued the law infringed on free speech and privacy. The Court disagreed, ruling that the law “only incidentally burdens” adult access and is a lawful means of shielding children from inappropriate material. Writing for the majority, Justice Clarence Thomas stated that states have the right to protect minors from accessing material considered obscene from their perspective.


Opponents, including the radical ACLU and liberal justices, claimed the law could impact access to R-rated movies, sex education materials, or romance novels. But these are precisely the types of content children should not be exposed to. The Court’s majority rightly rejected these arguments, affirming that Texas has every right—and responsibility—to protect minors from harmful material online.

This decision stands as a strong defense of Texas values, family rights, and responsible internet standards. With over 20 states now implementing similar laws, this ruling sets a powerful precedent for protecting America’s youth in the digital age.