1. United States
2. Ore.
3. Letter

I urge you to vote against the Kids Online Safety Act (S1748). While the bill's intention to protect children online is commendable, its approach raises significant concerns that could harm both internet users and the digital ecosystem. The Act's provisions for age verification and content filtering pose serious threats to user privacy and free speech. The mandated age verification study [§108] could lead to invasive data collection practices, compromising the privacy of all users, not just minors. Furthermore, the "Filter Bubble Transparency" requirements in Title II may force platforms to reveal proprietary algorithms, stifling innovation and potentially harming smaller companies unable to comply with costly new regulations. S1748's broad scope could inadvertently create barriers to entry for startups and smaller platforms, reducing competition in the tech sector. The implementation of extensive safety measures and transparency requirements will likely incur substantial costs, disproportionately affecting smaller businesses and potentially consolidating power among larger tech companies. Perhaps most concerning is the potential for this legislation to drive risky online behavior to less regulated spaces. By imposing strict controls on mainstream platforms, we risk pushing vulnerable youth towards more dangerous, less monitored corners of the internet where predators may operate with impunity. While child safety online is crucial, S1748 takes an overly broad approach that could have unintended consequences. Instead of supporting this bill, I encourage you to advocate for more targeted legislation that addresses specific online risks without compromising user privacy, free speech, or innovation. We need solutions that protect children while preserving the open nature of the internet that has fostered creativity, education, and economic growth. I respectfully ask that you vote No on the Kids Online Safety Act and work towards more balanced approaches to online safety that don't sacrifice our digital freedoms or economic competitiveness.