1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed Online Child Safety bills currently under consideration in Congress. While the intention behind these bills, such as the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) and COPPA 2.0, appears to be the protection of children, I believe they ultimately risk creating a surveillance state that fails to address the complexities of this critical issue. Firstly, these bills introduce significant privacy breaches that compromise the very freedoms and rights we seek to uphold. By mandating extensive data collection and monitoring of minors’ online activities, these measures can lead to an environment where not only children’s privacy is invaded but also where parental oversight becomes excessive, overshadowing children's agency. Secondly, the language in these bills can be interpreted in ways that allow for censorship and the chilling of free expression. While claiming to protect children from harmful content, these bills may unintentionally target and suppress valuable resources for marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ youth, and discussions surrounding issues such as race, gender, and mental health. The ambiguity in defining “harmful content” opens the door for broad interpretations that could end up silencing voices that need to be heard. Furthermore, the reliance on technology giants to regulate content raises concerns about accountability. We cannot entrust our children's safety to platforms that profit from their data while enforcing vague guidelines that may not prioritize their well-being. This shift effectively places the responsibility of safeguarding our children into the hands of entities primarily driven by profit. In conclusion, I urge you to oppose these bills. They do not genuinely protect our children; rather, they pave the way toward a society marked by increased surveillance and diminished freedoms. It is crucial that we seek comprehensive solutions that prioritize both the safety and privacy of our children without sacrificing fundamental rights. Thank you for considering the potential implications of these bills. I hope you will stand against them for the well-being of our children and the preservation of our democratic values.