Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB1525

Introduced
5/10/23  

Caption

COLLUDE Act Curtailing Online Limitations that Lead Unconstitutionally to Democracy's Erosion Act

Impact

If enacted, SB1525 would substantially affect state laws regarding digital content moderation and free speech rights. The amendment to Section 230 of the Communications Act introduces an affirmative defense for users and providers against accusations of being responsible for published content, provided they demonstrate they are not acting as information content providers. This could lead to heightened protections for users against governmental attempts to censor or moderate political speech on online platforms, fostering a more open and transparent dialogue in the digital landscape.

Summary

SB1525, also known as the 'COLLUDE Act' or 'Curtailing Online Limitations that Lead Unconstitutionally to Democracy’s Erosion Act', seeks to amend the Communications Act of 1934 by addressing government interference in content moderation decisions made by providers of interactive computer services. The proposed bill underscores the protection of political speech and introduces stringent measures against suppression of viewpoints that appear to originate from government mandates. Through this amendment, the bill aims to fortify users' rights on digital platforms and enhance accountability for governmental entities involved in content curation.

Contention

The bill is likely to generate significant debate regarding the role of regulatory oversight in online spaces. Critics might argue that while the bill aims to prevent government overreach, it could inadvertently enable the spread of misinformation or hate speech if not balanced with responsible moderation mechanisms. Furthermore, the definitions of 'legitimate law enforcement purposes' and 'national security purposes' within the legislation could be contentious, as they may provide loopholes for governmental entities to bypass restrictions under certain circumstances, fundamentally altering the dynamics of authority between government agencies and private online platforms.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US SB2293

AI LEAD Act AI Leadership To Enable Accountable Deployment Act

US SB2708

DETOUR Act Deceptive Experiences To Online Users Reduction Act

US SB2325

Algorithmic Justice and Online Platform Transparency Act

US HB4624

Algorithmic Justice and Online Platform Transparency Act

US HB6191

Curtailing Executive Overcompensation (CEO) Act

US HB3279

WIRELESS Leadership Act Winning the International Race for Economic Leadership and Expanding Service to Support Leadership Act

US SB2314

PRESERVE Online Speech Act of 2023 Preventing Restrictions and Empowering Speakers to Enable Robust and Varied Exchanges in Online Speech Act of 2023

US SB2073

Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act

US SB1499

HALT Act of 2023 Hastening Arms Limitations Talks Act of 2023

US HB3287

CABLE Leadership Act Cable Access for Broadband and Local Economic Leadership Act

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.