Following in the steps of the House Judiciary Committee’s antitrust package this summer, Senate lawmakers are again succumbing to anti-tech fervor without care for the impact this would have on our online experiences.
Today, NetChoice raised opposition to the intent to introduce the American Innovation and Choice Online Act led by Senator Klobuchar (D-MN) and Senator Grassley (R-IA). The radical bill would blunt America’s competitive edge, hurt Americans, and stifle small businesses.
“Americans clearly don’t want laws that require Google to turn over our personal information to bad actors, prevent Amazon from offering Amazon 2-day Prime shipping, prohibit Microsoft from bundling Word with Office365, and force Facebook to make our data less secure,” said Carl Szabo, Vice President and General Counsel at NetChoice. “This bill puts the interests of corporations ahead of consumers by banning useful services that Americans value because competitors say those services are difficult to compete against. By banning choices we rely on, Americans would be left with fewer services and conveniences right when they need them most.”
“American antitrust law exists to protect consumers from harm, rather than to protect multi-million dollar businesses from tough competition. Sen. Klobuchar’s radical bill represents the Europeanization of American antitrust law – and it’s worth remembering that in many markets, Europeans face higher prices and fewer choices,” continued Szabo.
“Many vulnerable Americans rely on accessible products to stay safe and independent, but this radical bill could ruin those smart tools we take for granted like same-day contactless delivery and voice integration,” continued Szabo. “If enacted, this bill would dull America’s competitive edge to the benefit of our foreign competitors”
Amongst other issues, American Innovation and Choice Online Act:
- Gives enormous power to the radical, progressive-controlled FTC and DOJ
- Outlaws products and services that consumers enjoy today
- Creates major risks for user privacy and security
- Prevents businesses from partnering with vulnerable communities
- Harms America’s economic position in the global economy
For resources on the American Innovation and Choice Online Act, check out: