← Back to context

Comment by fn-mote

5 days ago

> Option B is […] simpler than the status quo.

This bill FORBIDS platforms from operating in the state unless they provide age verification.

Forbid an OS for operating in Illinois? Sounds insane to me. When I bring my Linux laptop from California, what happens?

I'm not really focused on the exact wording of this bill. But mandating distros have a useradd and glibc with an extra couple functions is not a significant burden.

  • So... a pinky swear then, right?

    I mean, how is the OS going to actually verify the age of the operator?

    I see how this helps Facebook - if you lie to the OS, and the OS tells Facebook that you're over 18, then it's not Facebook's fault if they provide you an 18+ service.

    I don't see how this helps anyone else.

    • It's set by the administrator of the computer, so a parent can set it for their child instead of hoping their child is honest to every single individual site.

      That's the difference between a parental control and a pinky swear.

      6 replies →

  • I hope the number of downvotes you’re receiving makes you consider the absurdity of your suggestion.

    Have you seen distrowatch? Are you going to go track down maintainers from every distro - many of whom live outside of the U.S. - and demand they implement this? The smaller ones would probably ignore you or tell you to get fucked, the larger ones with funding might decide to drag you into court.