Legislation Threatening LGBTQ+ Digital Spaces and Privacy HB2661, the Electronic Devices Filters Obscene Material bill, aims to restrict access to online content deemed obscene or harmful to minors. However, such measures can inadvertently censor legitimate LGBTQ+ content and spaces. Age verification requirements to access social media accounts risk outing queer youth to unsupportive families and compromising their privacy. While protecting minors is important, this legislation threatens digital safe havens vital for LGBTQ+ community building and expression. We urge a balanced approach that safeguards free speech and inclusive online spaces without unduly burdening marginalized groups or enabling discriminatory censorship under the guise of morality. Robust public input and LGBTQ+ stakeholder engagement is crucial to avoid unintended harmful impacts.
