Safer GAMING Act

The Safer GAMING Act requires online video game providers to give parents tools to limit communication between their minor children and other users, enforced by the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general. Sec. 2, Safeguard requirements for online video game providers: This section defines key terms like 'minor' (under 18), 'interactive online video game' (a game connecting to the internet allowing user communication), and 'online video game provider' (a person providing such a game directly to consumers). It requires providers to offer parents safeguards to limit communication between a minor and any other user, including adults. These safeguards must be accessible, easy-to-use, enabled by default on a minor's account, and only disabled by the parent. The most protective privacy and safety settings must include these safeguards by default and be parent-only disabled. This requirement takes effect one year after the bill becomes law. Sec. 2, Enforcement by Federal Trade Commission: Violations of the safeguard requirement are treated as unfair or deceptive acts under the Federal Trade Commission Act, and the FTC enforces it with the same powers and penalties as that Act. Sec. 2, Actions by States: State attorneys general can sue in state or federal court to stop violations, enforce compliance, or get damages for residents, after notifying the FTC. The FTC can intervene in such state actions, and states cannot sue while a federal action is pending against the same defendant for the same violation. Sec. 2, Preemption: No state or local government can make or enforce any law related to the provisions of this Act.