Bluesky blocks Mississippi users over new age-verification law

Decentralized social network Bluesky has blocked access from Mississippi IP addresses after the state passed a strict age-verification law (HB 1126) that requires social platforms to verify the age of every user before allowing access.

Why Bluesky blocked Mississippi

• Bluesky says the law would force the platform to collect sensitive identity data from all users, not just check ages for specific content or features.
• The company said its small team lacks the resources to build the required verification systems, parental-consent workflows and compliance infrastructure.
• Mississippi’s law carries heavy penalties — reports cite fines up to $10,000 per user for noncompliance.
• Bluesky argues the law disproportionately burdens smaller platforms and entrenches big tech, reducing competition and innovation.

Legal context

Bluesky noted it already complies with the UK’s Online Safety Act, which mandates targeted age checks for certain content. Mississippi’s approach is broader: it effectively bars anyone from accessing the service unless they submit proof of age. The U.S. Supreme Court recently declined to pause the law while legal challenges continue.

What users will see

Anyone trying to reach Bluesky from a Mississippi IP will now see a notice explaining why the service is unavailable in the state.

Sources

• TechCrunch: Bluesky blocks service in Mississippi over age-assurance law
• Mississippi Free Press: Coverage of local impact and law context

Original coverage referenced: Engadget (link removed per instructions).

Summary prepared from public reporting and Bluesky statements.