The Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA) has expressed its opposition to the South Dakota Age Verification Act. In a letter to the state's legislature, CCIA highlighted concerns about data privacy and security associated with age verification and parental consent requirements outlined in the bill. The organization supports digital citizenship programs that promote responsible online behavior and empower parents with tools to manage their children's internet use.

The proposed legislation mandates age verification at the device operating system or application store level, which CCIA argues is insufficient as it does not address access through desktops, browsers, or other devices. This limitation could hinder the effectiveness of achieving legislators' intended goals.

Khara Boender, CCIA State Policy Director, who will testify on this matter, stated: "Younger internet users should have greater privacy protections, and unfortunately many bills aiming to protect children would require companies to collect additional personal data to achieve and prove compliance. Parents rather than governments or companies are better positioned than anyone else to decide what material is appropriate for their children and companies offer numerous tools to enable them to set content and time limits for their families."

Boender further encouraged South Dakota lawmakers to consider implementing digital literacy programs for parents and young users. Such initiatives would ensure awareness of available tools that allow personalization of online experiences.