Overview

This bill mandates that companies selling age-restricted goods and services online must take reasonable steps to verify the age of their customers. The specifics of which goods and services are covered and the acceptable verification methods will be determined by the Secretary of State.

Description

The Online Purchasing of Goods and Services (Age Verification) Bill aims to protect children by requiring online businesses to verify the age of customers purchasing age-restricted goods and services. This involves:

• Age Verification Mandate: Companies selling age-restricted goods and services online must take "reasonable steps" to verify the age of purchasers.
• Secretary of State's Role: The Secretary of State will define which goods and services are subject to this legislation, considering existing age restrictions. They will also publish yearly guidance on fulfilling the age verification requirements.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Businesses failing to comply face fines up to the statutory maximum upon summary conviction.
• Regulations and Parliamentary Scrutiny: Regulations made under this act are subject to parliamentary review and approval.
• Extent: The Act extends to Northern Ireland.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify any government spending. The cost of implementing and enforcing the legislation will depend on the resources allocated by the government and the level of compliance by businesses.

Groups Affected

• Online Businesses: Businesses selling age-restricted goods and services online will be directly affected, needing to implement age verification procedures and potentially incurring costs.
• Consumers: Customers purchasing age-restricted goods online may experience additional verification steps during the purchasing process.
• Government Agencies: Government agencies responsible for enforcement will have additional responsibilities in overseeing compliance and investigating violations.

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