These policies are so shortsighted. What about youth who are disabled? Socializing online can a huge benefit for them and allow them to connect with other people who they might never meet. What about LGBT youth who live in oppressive environments? Having a community that accepts them boosts their own self worth and reduces the risks of harm. What about any marginalized youth? They may be in a situation where they are one of the only people like them in the are and the internet allows them to find other people like them and give them peace about their own identity.

This push for age verification is just a thinly veiled attempt to unmask everyone on the internet to open them up to harm and prevent connections from being made.