PHX Reporter

The Arizona House of Representatives has approved HB2195, a bill introduced by House Majority Whip Julie Willoughby. The legislation aims to protect children from inappropriate advertisements on digital apps marketed for kids. The bill mandates that digital platforms ensure ads within child-directed applications align with the app's content rating.

"As a mother, I know firsthand how frustrating it is to trust an app labeled as 'kid-friendly,' only to find out that the ads are anything but appropriate," said Representative Willoughby. "HB2195 is a common-sense measure that ensures advertising standards match the content rating of the app itself—just like it was done years ago with television advertising during children’s programming."

The bill requires child-directed apps to take measures to prevent mature or inappropriate advertisements. Platforms failing to comply could face penalties of up to $100,000 per violation, enforced by the Arizona Attorney General.

"This is about protecting kids," Representative Willoughby continued. "Tech companies have had years to address this problem on their own, but they’ve failed to do so. Arizona is stepping up to make sure kids can use digital platforms without being bombarded by ads that don’t belong in a child’s world."

HB2195 supports the House Republican Majority's commitment to protecting families and promoting public safety. By ensuring safe online experiences for children, the bill reinforces consumer protections and strengthens digital accountability.

The legislation now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Julie Willoughby serves as a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives for Legislative District 13 in Chandler, Gilbert, and Sun Lakes. She also holds the position of House Majority Whip.

Information from this article can be found here.