Fact Check: Texas Law Imposes Fines Up to $10,000 Daily for Non-Compliance by Adult Sites
What We Know
In June 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a Texas law requiring adult websites to verify the ages of their users. This law, known as HB 1181, mandates that websites with more than one-third of their content deemed harmful to minors must ensure that visitors are over 18 years old. Users can verify their age by submitting digital identification, government-issued ID, or using a "commercially reasonable method" such as banking information. If websites fail to comply with this law, they face fines of up to $10,000 per day for non-compliance (Texas Tribune, Fox News).
Analysis
The claim that Texas law imposes fines up to $10,000 daily for non-compliance by adult sites is supported by multiple credible sources. The Supreme Court's ruling confirmed the constitutionality of the law, emphasizing that it is within a state's authority to implement measures aimed at preventing minors from accessing sexually explicit content (Texas Tribune). The law's penalties are explicitly stated, with non-compliant sites facing significant financial repercussions (Fox News).
The sources providing this information are reputable, including major news outlets like the Texas Tribune and Fox News, which are known for their coverage of legal and political issues. The Supreme Court's decision itself serves as a primary source, affirming the law's legitimacy and the penalties associated with it.
However, critics of the law, including civil liberties organizations, argue that it infringes on free speech and privacy rights. They express concerns that such regulations could deter adults from accessing legal content and raise issues regarding the security of personal information (Texas Tribune). Despite these criticisms, the legal framework established by the Supreme Court supports the enforcement of the law as it stands.
Conclusion
The claim that Texas law imposes fines up to $10,000 daily for non-compliance by adult sites is True. The law has been upheld by the Supreme Court, which confirmed that the penalties for non-compliance are indeed set at this amount. The ruling reflects the state's authority to regulate access to sexually explicit content in an effort to protect minors, despite ongoing debates about the implications for adult users' rights.
