Oppose SB 130 & AB 105 — Protect Privacy and Free Expression

I am writing to urge you to oppose Senate Bill 130 and Assembly Bill 105, both of which pose serious threats to the privacy, freedoms, and digital rights of Wisconsin residents. While the protection of children online is a noble goal, these bills take an approach that is misguided and disproportionate. The proposed age verification requirements would establish a dangerous precedent for government surveillance, requiring the collection and storage of sensitive personal information on a massive scale. In an era of frequent data breaches and identity theft, such systems would expose Wisconsinites to unacceptable risks. Equally troubling is the potential ban on VPNs. As a web technology professional, I rely on VPNs daily to ensure secure communication and protect sensitive data. Restricting this essential tool would not only hinder Wisconsin’s technology industry but also leave residents more vulnerable to cyber threats. VPNs are a cornerstone of modern digital security, and banning them would undermine both professional practices and personal privacy. These bills also undermine parental authority. Wisconsin law already trusts parents to make decisions about alcohol consumption for their children in certain contexts. It is inconsistent and illogical to then assume parents are incapable of guiding their children’s online activities, especially given the wide range of parental control tools already available. Government should not substitute itself for parental oversight in private family matters. Ultimately, SB 130 and AB 105 fail to address the root causes of online risks to minors while imposing broad restrictions that infringe on the rights of all citizens. The potential for abuse of such systems far outweighs any perceived benefits. Instead of pursuing legislation that compromises privacy and free expression, Wisconsin should focus on initiatives that empower parents and promote digital literacy education. These approaches would better protect children while preserving the freedoms and innovation that our state values. Governor Evers, I respectfully ask you to stand up for the constitutional rights and digital privacy of Wisconsin residents by opposing Senate Bill 130 and Assembly Bill 105. Our state should lead in promoting both child safety and digital rights—not sacrifice one for the illusion of the other. Thank you for your consideration.