1. United States
2. Nev.
3. Letter

The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) poses a grave threat to online rights and freedoms. This misguided legislation would force platforms to implement invasive surveillance measures and engage in heavy-handed censorship of legal content to "prevent and mitigate" a broad range of societal issues, from depression to substance abuse. The vague language essentially makes platforms liable for any content that state attorneys general deem potentially harmful to minors, leading to a chilling effect on speech. KOSA would compel platforms to collect sensitive age and identity information to determine which users are under 16, undermining anonymity and privacy. Even with proposed changes, companies would likely still implement age verification systems exposing users' personal data to security risks. Moreover, the bill fails to address the complexity of issues like mental health and addiction, simplistically blaming platform design rather than underlying societal factors. Instead of protecting youth, KOSA would shrink the online space for all users by incentivizing censorship of important discussions and resources related to physical and mental health, sexuality, and social issues. It solidifies Big Tech's dominance by imposing strict compliance costs that only major players can afford. Congress should reject this flawed approach that trades away digital rights for an illusion of safety. Sensible policies addressing data privacy, competition, and platform accountability would better empower users while avoiding government censorship and overreach. Protecting young people requires holistic solutions, not curtailing internet access and open discourse. I urge you to oppose the Kids Online Safety Act and any legislation that undermines free expression online.