July 23, 2024 at 08:15AM
The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) aims to protect children from online harms and regulate tech companies. It would create a “duty of care” for online platforms used by minors, requiring them to prevent and mitigate various harms. KOSA has support from nonprofits, parent groups, and some tech companies, but faces opposition over concerns about free speech and enforcement. The bill currently has bipartisan support in Congress, but its passage remains uncertain.
Based on the meeting notes, the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) aims to protect children from the potential harms of social media and other online platforms by imposing a “duty of care” on these platforms to prevent and mitigate various harmful content and activities. This includes provisions to prevent bullying, violence, and harmful advertisements, as well as empowering minors with tools to protect their information and opt out of personalized recommendations. Enforcement of the act would fall under the Federal Trade Commission, with support from various nonprofits, tech accountability groups, parent organizations, pediatricians, and some tech companies.
Despite its broad support, some groups and individuals including the ACLU, the Electronic Frontier Foundation, and Sen. Rand Paul have expressed opposition, citing concerns about potential violations of the First Amendment and the possibility of censorship targeting marginalized communities. The bill’s progress in Congress is uncertain, with Senate Majority Leader Schumer expressing support but facing objections from some colleagues, leading to delays in bringing the bill to a vote.
Overall, the current status of the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) indicates significant bipartisan support but faces opposition based on constitutional and free speech concerns, thus making its passage through Congress uncertain at this time.