The First Amendment does not prevent states from requiring online purveyors of pornography to implement reasonable age-verification measures to protect children from harm.
As co-leader of a 24-state coalition, Attorney General Todd Rokita pressed this point in an amicus brief filed with the U.S. Supreme Court recently.
The court is considering a constitutional challenge to a Texas law requiring websites hosting large amounts of obscene material harmful to children to implement a reasonable age-verification system. That law is similar to an Indiana law passed by the General Assembly. It reflects that states have long had the authority to prevent minors from accessing obscene materials, including pornography.
“Not only do states have the authority to prevent pornography websites from providing children with hardcore porn, but they have a responsibility to do so,” Attorney General Rokita said. “The truth is that exposure to porn — much of which touts sexual violence — causes real harm to minors. It hurts them emotionally, intellectually, psychologically, sexually and socially. So, there are compelling reasons to prevent minors from viewing pornography. Children are a precious gift from God. As a public servant, I’ll always support parents in the mission to protect our kids.”
Many other adult industries — such as alcohol, gambling and tobacco — already employ age-verification technology.
Keystone Cooperative announces next CEO
Indiana's county fairs allowed alcohol service areas starting July 1
Kroger members can now redeem Points for dollars off groceries in-store and online
First responders rescue multiple people in recent days
Countrymark fueling stations hosting Fueling Freedom on Friday
Step right up! Big Top Circus presented by Bee Window returns to the Indiana State Fair
Congressman Baird ioins President Trump for Medal of Honor ceremony for Major Nicholas Dockery
INDOT with chip seal operations on area roads
Conservation officer serving Vermillion Co. completes advanced public safety diving instructor training
May unemployment rate in state still below national average
IDEM recycling grants available
Identity released in fatal U.S. 36 crash
Longtime educator tabbed to lead new Montezuma Elementary
Gov. Braun unveils Indiana’s exhibit for the National Mall during The Great American State Fair
Nominations now open for farmers and ranchers to serve on USDA Farm Service Agency county committees
CBP officers in Indianapolis seize counterfeit FIFA World Cup 2026 merchandise
