California lawmakers are advancing legislation to exempt most open source operating systems from the state's age verification requirements. The move follows concerns from Linux advocates about the original rules. Colorado has already enacted similar protections.
Assembly Member Buffy Wicks introduced AB 1856 in February to revise AB 1043, the Digital Age Assurance Act signed in October 2025. The updated definition excludes operating system providers that distribute software under terms allowing copying, redistribution, and modification. The bill cleared the Appropriations Committee 11-0 on May 14 and awaits an assembly vote after being ordered to third reading on May 19. It would take effect January 1, 2027, for covered providers.
