WASHINGTON—Today, a new bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate that targets the use of algorithms on social media. Called the “Algorithm Accountability Act,” it is a gift to trial attorneys and special interests looking to sue away free speech online they don’t like.
NetChoice calls on Congress to reject this proposal and focus on meaningful and lawful protections for Americans online.
“All social media feeds use algorithms, even those that sort content in chronological order. They are a primary tool social media companies use to keep users safe online—deployed to weed out violence, self-harm, and pro-terrorism content. Breaking these tools will force companies to choose between platform safety and Section 230 protections, causing a collapse in the amount of speech hosted by online services,” said Zach Lilly, NetChoice Director of Government Affairs.
“Section 230 opened the door for online services to host user content, allowing for the proliferation of speech and debate across the internet. The law currently doesn’t hold platforms accountable precisely because it is not their speech. Similarly, conservatives have fought legislation introduced by progressives that would attempt to hold gun manufacturers liable for the actions of criminals. If passed, this bill would be a handout for the trial attorneys and special interests seeking to profit from the destruction of these services that provide spaces for Americans to speak online. Congress should swiftly reject it.”
You can find the bill text here.
Please contact press@netchoice.org with inquiries.
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