Press Releases
James’ App Store Accountability Act Passes Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade Subcommittee
WASHINGTON, D.C.,
December 12, 2025
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressman John James' (MI-10) H.R. 3149, the App Store Accountability Act, advanced out of the Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade (CMT) Subcommittee by a unanimous voice vote. This legislation, authored by James, takes direct aim at Big Tech’s failures to protect children online and restores real authority to parents over what apps their kids can access. Rep. James bill is being cosponsored by CMT Chairman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and Rep. Erin Houchin (IN-9). The Senate companion bill is being led by Senator Mike Lee (R-UT). "As a father of three, protecting kids online is one of my top priorities—and something parents across Michigan raise with me constantly,” said Rep. James. “My bill is simple: app stores should follow the same common-sense rules we expect from every small business. If a corner store can’t knowingly sell adult or addictive products to minors, neither should the world’s largest digital storefronts. These multi-billion-dollar companies already have the means to do this safely and while respecting privacy, but they're instead choosing to put profits over protecting kids. This isn’t about one company: it’s about holding every platform to the same basic standard of responsibility. Parents have a right to know, kids can’t consent, and no one is above the law." “The App Store Accountability Act will give parents the tools they’ve been asking for to protect their children online,” said Senator Mike Lee. “I’m pleased to see our bill moving forward and urge Congress to prioritize parents over Big Tech to get this critical legislation passed. Thank you to Rep. Jon James for leading the charge in the House!” A national poll shows 88 percent of parents support requiring app stores to verify age and restrict adult or addictive material. This support has turned into action with more than 4,500 parents sending letters urging the Energy and Commerce Committee to pass the App Store Accountability Act. The bill also has garnered broad support from law-enforcement groups, including from Livingston County Sheriff Michael Murphy, Marquette County Sheriff Gregory Zyburt, and the International Union of Police Associations. Law-enforcement confronts the consequences of online exploitation every day and understands the risks our kids face online. The App Store Accountability Act has earned support from a wide range of organizations committed to the safety and well-being of America’s children. Endorsements include:
With yesterday’s subcommittee passage, the App Store Accountability Act moves to the full Energy and Commerce Committee for further consideration. To view Rep. James’ remarks, click here. ### |
