- United States
- N.J.
- Letter
I am writing to urge you to protect Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act and oppose any efforts to repeal or substantially weaken this critical internet protection.
Section 230 has been the foundation of internet freedom for over 25 years. It allows platforms to host user-generated content without being held liable for everything their users post, while simultaneously giving them the ability to moderate harmful content. Without this protection, the internet as we know it would fundamentally change in ways that harm everyday users like me.
Repealing Section 230 would force platforms to choose between two bad options: either refuse to moderate any content at all to avoid liability, turning the internet into a cesspool of illegal and harmful material, or over-moderate and censor vast amounts of legitimate speech to avoid potential lawsuits. Small platforms, startups, and community forums would be hit hardest, as they lack the legal resources of major tech companies. This would consolidate power among a few giant corporations and eliminate the diverse voices that make the internet valuable.
I understand there are legitimate concerns about how major platforms operate, but Section 230 repeal is not the solution. It would hurt small businesses, independent creators, and ordinary users far more than it would affect the tech giants it aims to regulate. If we want to address platform accountability, we need targeted reforms that preserve the core protections enabling free expression online while addressing specific harms.
I ask that you publicly commit to opposing any legislation that would repeal or substantially weaken Section 230. Internet freedom depends on maintaining the legal framework that has allowed online speech and innovation to flourish. Please stand with your constituents who rely on an open internet for communication, commerce, and community.