Reject Internet Censorship Bill - Protects Free Speech

This proposed legislation HB2661 raises significant concerns regarding free expression and access to information. Mandating manufacturers install content filtering tools that censor broad categories of online material deemed "harmful to minors" is a form of censorship ripe for overbroad application and abuse. Historically, such vague standards have been leveraged to suppress LGBTQ+ content and resources under the guise of protecting youth. This threatens the wellbeing of marginalized communities by restricting access to valuable information and support. Furthermore, criminalizing the sharing of legal content with minors by non-guardians unduly burdens educators, librarians, and youth workers engaging in legitimate educational or counseling activities. Empowering the state to impose both civil and criminal penalties for perceived violations raises concerning overreach and chilling effects on free speech. While protecting children is a laudable goal, this bill employs an extraordinarily heavy-handed approach likely to cause more harm than good. I urge you to reject this legislation HB2661 and instead pursue more balanced solutions that uphold Constitutional rights while addressing legitimate child safety concerns through evidence-based policies developed via robust public discourse. Unchecked censorship is not the answer.