Oppose KOSA: Protect Free Speech and Avoid Censorship

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) and urge you to vote against this bill if it comes before the House. While the intention to protect children online is admirable, this legislation poses a significant threat to free speech and could lead to widespread censorship. KOSA, sponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal and Marsha Blackburn, passed the Senate with a 91-3 vote in 2024. However, its broad 'duty of care' standard for social media companies is deeply concerning. This vague requirement could force platforms like Meta to over-censor content, infringing on First Amendment rights. The bill's aim to prevent harmful content such as bullying, violence, and sexual exploitation is important. However, the methods proposed are overly broad and could result in the removal of constitutionally protected speech. The potential for abuse and overreach is substantial, as companies may err on the side of censorship to avoid penalties. It's worth noting that Meta has already challenged the senators' claims, stating they are based on selectively leaked internal documents. This suggests that the bill's premises may be flawed or exaggerated. While child safety online is crucial, it should not come at the cost of fundamental freedoms. Instead of KOSA, I urge you to explore alternative measures that can protect children without compromising free speech. This could include better parental controls, improved digital literacy education, and more targeted legislation that doesn't risk censorship. The stalling of KOSA in the House presents an opportunity to reconsider its implications. I ask that you stand against this potential power grab and vote 'No' on KOSA if it comes up for a vote. Protect our First Amendment rights and prevent the establishment of a dangerous precedent for online censorship.