Oppose KOSA: Protect Free Speech and Access to Information

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which I believe poses a significant threat to free speech and access to information under the guise of protecting children. While the intent to safeguard young people online is admirable, this legislation could have far-reaching negative consequences that outweigh its potential benefits. KOSA's proposed 'duty of care' requirement for tech companies is particularly concerning. This vague standard could easily be misused to censor or restrict access to a wide range of content, including valuable resources for vulnerable groups such as LGBTQ+ youth. The bill's allowance for users to disable algorithmic recommendations could also limit exposure to diverse viewpoints and information, potentially creating echo chambers rather than fostering critical thinking. Furthermore, the annual independent audits mandated by KOSA could lead to overreach in data collection and privacy infringement, ironically compromising the very safety it aims to protect. The bill's broad scope and potential for misinterpretation could result in tech companies over-censoring content to avoid penalties, stifling innovation and free expression in the process. While I understand the concerns about social media's impact on youth mental health, I believe that education, parental involvement, and targeted support for at-risk youth are more effective and less dangerous approaches than sweeping legislation that could be weaponized for authoritarian control of information. I urge you to vote against KOSA when it comes before the Senate later this year. Instead, I encourage you to support initiatives that enhance digital literacy, promote responsible tech use, and address the root causes of youth mental health issues without compromising our fundamental rights to free speech and access to information. Our democracy depends on the free flow of ideas, and we must be cautious about any legislation that could restrict this, no matter how well-intentioned it may seem.