1. United States
2. Mo.
3. Letter

The SCREEN Act poses a grave threat to online freedom of expression and privacy. This draconian legislation would force websites to implement invasive age verification systems, including biometric scans and ID uploads. Such measures gravely undermine civil liberties and enable mass surveillance. Moreover, classifying any website with content "harmful to minors" as off-limits risks severely constraining access to valuable information and resources that have important educational and expressive value. This misguided bill backed by the Heritage Foundation exemplifies an alarming trend of censorship under the guise of protecting minors. Its provisions empowering the FTC to levy crippling fines and conduct enforcement raids create a chilling effect that could shutter websites unable to comply with onerous requirements. Even nonprofit platforms like the Archive of Our Own would be imperiled. Protecting free speech and privacy online is paramount in a democratic society. I urge you to adamantly oppose the SCREEN Act and any similar efforts to impose draconian restrictions under the pretext of child safety. Our fundamental rights and an open internet hang in the balance. Please stand firm against this pernicious legislation that sacrifices core civil liberties.