The US Supreme Court declines to block a Texas law that requires app stores and app developers to verify users’ ages before allowing minors to download or purchase apps. According to reporting cited from Reuters, the justices deny requests to halt enforcement while a legal challenge proceeds, including a challenge brought on free-speech grounds. The lawsuit is brought by a technology industry group and students, who argue the requirements would restrict protected speech or impose burdens on how information is conveyed online. The Texas law also includes a parental-consent requirement for minors to obtain apps or make purchases. With the Supreme Court decision, the law remains in effect unless and until lower courts or the Supreme Court rule otherwise on the merits of the challenge. The ruling specifically addresses whether the law should be temporarily blocked during the litigation process, not whether the statute is ultimately valid under the US Constitution. Multiple outlets report the Supreme Court’s action as a denial of an application for an injunction that would have stopped Texas from enforcing the rules.