When it comes to streaming adult content, Arkansas residents may have to find another place to get their fill as Pornhub has officially gone dark in the state. This decision comes after the enactment of a new law that requires all online content providers hosting adult material to implement an age verification system to ensure that users are over the age of eighteen.
The new law, which was signed into existence by the Arkansas Governor in the latter part of 2020, is meant to protect children from accessing inappropriate content online. Any content provider found to be in violation of the law can be fined up to $25,000 and may even face criminal charges.
In response to the new law, popular adult platform Pornhub has decided to outright block users in Arkansas from accessing its site, while other providers have opted to comply with the new law by implementing age verification measures.
In an official statement released by Pornhub, the company stated that it “cares deeply about the safety of its community members and advocates for the responsible use of its platform and encourages all users to follow the law. As a result, we have decided to restrict access to our platform for all users residing in Arkansas until further notice.”
Though unfortunate news for Arkansas residents looking to access adult content, the ruling does make sense for Pornhub, which has long been a source of controversy due to its hosting of content that many find questionable. It’s likely that Pornhub felt that blocking users in the state was the only viable solution to the situation, as it would have proved too difficult and costly for the company to comply with the new law.
At this time, Pornhub plans on keeping its block on Arkansas residents until further notice, though it is possible that the block may be lifted in the future if the state decides to modify its age verification laws. While it is unfortunate for some that they may not be able to access porn in their own state, the ruling does ensure that children are better protected online, and that should be welcomed by everyone.