1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to reconsider and overturn Ohio's age verification laws currently in place. While the stated intention behind these regulations is to protect minors online, they ultimately threaten the privacy and liberties of all citizens while failing to achieve their intended objectives. The implementation of stringent age verification measures poses a significant breach of personal privacy. In an age where data security is of utmost concern, mandating that individuals provide identifiable information to access online content creates an unnecessary risk. This process not only exposes sensitive data but may also lead to misuse by third parties, jeopardizing the safety of those we aim to protect. Moreover, these laws can impose barriers to information and resources essential for minors and vulnerable populations. By restricting access based on age verification, we could inadvertently prevent young people from finding critical support resources, particularly around issues like mental health, sexuality, and personal safety. It is essential to recognize the potential for overreach and discrimination inherent in these laws. The digital landscape is dynamic and diverse, and limiting access based on rigid age parameters can disproportionately impact marginalized communities. We must foster an environment where young individuals can explore vital topics without excessive scrutiny. Furthermore, the reliance on undefined mechanisms to enforce age verification means that content availability could fluctuate based on arbitrary decisions made by online platforms. This could lead to censorship and stifle the free exchange of ideas that is so vital in a democratic society. In light of these considerations, I respectfully urge you to act decisively against the consolidation of such intrusive regulations. Let us work towards solutions that enhance safety while respecting the privacy and rights of every individual.