YouTube has been around for 20 years and until August 13, 2025 of tomorrow, YouTube's AI will start testing on a small subset of YouTube users who are over or under 18, requiring them to verify their age using a credit card, a government-valid ID, and a driver's license. This change is happening without much public discussion or consideration of the implications. For a platform that has been part of our daily lives, this shift introduces privacy concerns and accessibility barriers that outweigh the intended benefits of age verification.

AI-driven age verification systems rely heavily on sensitive personal information, creating risks of data breaches and identity theft. In a digital age where privacy is incredibly valuable, mandating users to release such detailed information is an overreach. Moreover, not everyone has easy access to the required documents, such as a credit card or a government ID. This will disproportionately affect young people from marginalized backgrounds, potentially barring them from accessing content that is educational or essential.

We recognize the importance of ensuring that age-restricted content is not accessible to minors. However, the means to achieve this should not compromise user privacy or create unjust access barriers. Alternative age verification methods exist that can work just as effectively without intruding on personal data—such as leveraging user activity and existing digital footprints, or implementing parental controls that empower families to manage their content consumption.

The use of AI for such sensitive operations without transparent oversight or input from the community sets a concerning precedent. It can lead to broader surveillance issues, expanding beyond age verification and into other areas of our digital lives, infringing on our rights to privacy and freedom. Oregon should not allow these practices without thoroughly exploring and discussing their impacts.

Let's urge local lawmakers and digital platforms to rethink the implementation of AI-driven age verification. Instead, let's push for solutions that protect children while respecting everyone's privacy. Please sign this petition to make your voice heard and help shape a safer, more private digital future for all Oregonians.