Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SB2573

Introduced
1/17/22  
Refer
1/17/22  

Caption

Social media companies; require to file a report for any restriction of a candidate or elected official.

Impact

If enacted, SB2573 introduces new Section 23-15-823 to the Mississippi Code of 1972, which will require social media platforms to define terms related to restrictions and comply with reporting standards established by the Secretary of State. The bill aims to protect the digital communication avenues of those running for public office, ensuring that they are not unfairly silenced or restricted based on their political views. This move aligns with broader national conversations about the role of social media in elections and the need for fair practices in online platforms.

Summary

Senate Bill 2573 aims to enhance transparency in the political sphere concerning restrictions imposed on candidates and elected officials by social media platforms. The bill mandates that any social media company that restricts a candidate or elected official must file a report with the Secretary of State within three business days of the restriction. This is intended to ensure accountability on the part of social media companies and provide a mechanism for candidates and elected officials to address any perceived violations of their rights.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB2573 is likely to center on the implications of government regulation of social media companies. Supporters argue that it is a necessary step to protect candidates from unjust censorship and encourage open political discourse online. Conversely, opponents might raise concerns about the potential for government overreach and the implications this could have on free speech and the autonomy of social media platforms. The definitions of 'restriction' and the procedures for reporting could become focal points for legal disputes and discussions about the bill's effectiveness and potential loopholes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS SB2278

Social media companies; require to file a report for any restriction of a candidate or elected official. Social media account.

MS A4094

Requires redaction and nondisclosure of home address of elected officials and candidates for elected office.

MS A2799

Requires redaction and nondisclosure of home address of elected officials and candidates for elected office.

MS S1274

Requires redaction and nondisclosure of home address of elected officials and candidates for elected office.

MS S2871

Requires redaction and nondisclosure of home address of elected officials and candidates for elected office.

MS A2993

Requires elected public officials and candidates for elective public office to disclose if they ever filed for bankruptcy; requires financial disclosure by candidates for public office in county or municipality.

MS HB4191

Relating to requirements imposed on social media companies to prevent corruption and provide transparency of election-related content made available on social media websites

MS HB4395

Relating to requirements imposed on social media companies to prevent corruption and provide transparency of election-related content made available on social media websites

MS HB3187

Relating to requirements imposed on social media companies to prevent corruption and provide transparency of election-related content made available on social media websites

MS AB1392

Elections: voter registration information: elected officials and candidates.

Similar Bills

CA SB918

Law enforcement contact process: search warrants.

KS SB228

Providing for the regulation of supplemental nursing services agencies and healthcare workers platforms by the secretary for aging and disability services.

KS HB2184

Providing for the regulation of supplemental nursing services agencies and healthcare workers platforms by the secretary for aging and disability services.

CA AB1093

Remote online notaries public.

CA AB743

Remote online notaries public.

CA SB696

Notaries public.

CA AB1791

Digital content provenance.

MI HB5882

Occupations: notaries public; use of communication technology to perform electronic notarizations and remote electronic notarizations; modify and expand. Amends secs. 3, 5, 26, 26a, 26b & 27 of 2003 PA 238 (MCL 55.263 et seq.); adds sec. 26e & repeals sec. 26d of 2003 PA 238 (MCL 55.286d).