1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

I am writing to voice my opposition to HR 8250 and all similar bills that would introduce age verification legislation. These legislative pieces often voice a desire to "protect children" from online content. I have never yet read a bill that actually does so, and every such bill I have seen has effectively required tech companies to become active surveillance brokers. Far from protecting anyone, I believe this and similar bills only serve to create a surveillance state run by technology corporations, and violate all principles of privacy. I encourage you to oppose this and all age verification legislation. If Congress wants to protect our children, I suggest it starts by regulating the purchase of firearms and the prevention of school shootings.