Memphis Standard

U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) has issued a memo countering criticisms from tech companies regarding the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). The bill, which passed the Senate with a 91-3 vote, aims to enhance online privacy and safety for children. However, it faces challenges in the House.

The memo addresses concerns raised by some tech companies and lawmakers about potential impacts on free speech and the First Amendment. Blackburn asserts that KOSA "would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet" and does not grant the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or state attorneys general power over content or speech.

Blackburn also clarified that KOSA would not give new rulemaking authority to the FTC concerning social media platforms. Instead, she emphasized that the bill is designed to hold these platforms accountable for their product designs.

The legislation seeks to regulate features offered by tech companies to children and mitigate mental health impacts. Some House Republicans have expressed concerns that it could censor conservative views, but Blackburn refuted this claim.

Concerns about KOSA's "duty of care" provision were also addressed. This provision requires platforms to prevent harms such as those related to suicide and eating disorders. Amendments have been made in the House version of the bill regarding this provision.

Blackburn highlighted that KOSA applies only to commercial online platforms like social media and video streaming services, excluding nonprofit organizations and news outlets.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has voiced support for KOSA's concept but finds details in its current form problematic. His comments suggest potential hurdles for advocates of the Senate-passed version as they seek approval from the full House floor.