1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) and state-level online age verification laws. While I appreciate the intent to protect children from harmful content online, these policies raise significant concerns regarding privacy, freedom of expression, and the potential for misuse of sensitive personal information. Implementing age verification methods often requires users to submit identifying information, which can expose vulnerable populations to data breaches, misuse, or even identity theft. Furthermore, these measures may inadvertently restrict access to valuable resources, including educational materials and support forums for minors. Additionally, I am concerned that these laws shift the responsibility for online safety from parents and guardians to tech companies and government entities. Rather than creating a safer internet, these measures could stifle open communication and limit young people's ability to explore ideas relevant to their growth and development. I urge you to consider the broader implications of these proposals and to prioritize solutions that protect children without infringing on the rights and privacy of all citizens. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.