If you’ve seen headlines claiming the government is about to shut down online porn or come after creators with a “sledgehammer,” take a breath, nothing has changed.
Let’s cut through the noise and talk about what’s really happening and what you should (and shouldn’t) worry about.
Before we start:
- Nothing has changed
- You’re not in trouble
- This is recycled panic to drive clicks, not reality
Let’s talk about what’s actually going on—and how you can keep creating safely and confidently.
Where Is This Panic Coming From?
Most of the hype is tied to a bill called the Interstate Obscenity Definition Act, introduced way back in May 2024 by Senator Mike Lee (UT) and Representative Mary Miller (IL). The bill aims to:
- Redefine what counts as “obscene” content online
- Update the 1973 Miller Test for digital platforms
- Give federal authorities more power to pursue adult content that crosses state lines
And yes, articles are now recirculating that info with over-the-top language like:
“Seeks to take a sledgehammer to the porn industry”
“Could wipe out online adult content”
“Major blow to creators”
But here’s the truth…
The Bill Hasn’t Passed, Nothing Has Changed
Despite the drama:
- The bill did not pass
- It hasn’t advanced through committee
- No laws have changed
- No creators have been prosecuted under it
This is the same recycled panic that pops up every few months, designed to scare you into sharing, not inform you.
Why These Headlines Are Clickbait
Let’s be real: outrage gets clicks.
Words like “sledgehammer” and “porn ban incoming” aren’t legal updates — they’re bait. They spread fear in the adult industry because fear sells. But none of it reflects the current legal reality.
You don’t need to panic. You just need to stay informed.
What Should You Actually Be Doing?
Instead of stressing over what-ifs, here’s how to protect your content and stay in control:
1. Own Your Platform
Don’t rely on Linktree-style platforms to host your links. Build your own website. Host your content on your terms. Build your own website. Control your content. Set your own rules.
👉 Need help with that? Automate Horizon builds adult-friendly sites designed for creators like you
2. Keep Your Homepage Clean(ish)
Public-facing pages don’t have to be censored, but they should be safe-for-work. Use this as a guide to protect you from flagging, shadowbans, and domain blocks.:
- Blurred or teaser images
- Password protection or age gates for explicit content (think paid sites)
- Soft language like “exclusive gallery” instead of graphic terms
3. Use the Right Payment Processor
Mainstream processors like Stripe or PayPal often ban adult creators without notice. Instead, use trusted adult-friendly processors like CCBill, which supports:
- Personal websites
- Merch stores
- OnlyFans, Fansly, and more
✨ Automate Horizon is partnered with CCBill and can help you get set up for FREE to take online payments, no hidden fees. 👉 Start here
4. Understand the Law (Without the Fear)
The current legal standard for what’s considered “obscene” is called the Miller Test. It asks:
- Whether something is overly sexual
- Whether it’s offensive by community standards
- Whether it has any value (artistic, educational, etc.)
If your content has creative value — like artistic nudes, performance clips, or paid subscriber content — it’s highly unlikely to meet that standard. They don’t suddenly become illegal because someone wrote a bill.
Learn more about the Miller Test and why it matters
Final Word
No, porn isn’t getting banned.
No, you’re not breaking the law.
No, you’re not about to lose your site.
What you do need is clarity, control, and smart strategies — and that’s where we come in.
In the meantime?
Keep creating. Keep growing.
👉 Want to make your site smarter, safer, and 100% yours? Book a call and talk to us.
