Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

Kansas Senate Bill SB50

Introduced
1/18/23  
Refer
1/19/23  
Report Pass
2/13/23  
Refer
3/28/23  

Caption

Prohibiting internet social media terms of service that permit censorship of speech.

Impact

If enacted, SB50 would significantly alter the existing framework governing social media interactions and regulations in the state. It would challenge the authority of social media companies to decide which content is permissible, influencing how they craft and enforce their terms of service. As a result, the bill may lead to increased litigation between users and platforms over perceived violations of this law, including disputes about what constitutes censorship and the enforcement of community standards.

Summary

Senate Bill 50 (SB50) addresses the increasing concerns surrounding censorship practices on social media platforms by prohibiting any terms of service that allow for the censorship of speech. The bill aims to create a more open digital environment, ensuring individuals can freely express their opinions without fear of being silenced or banned by social media companies. By specifically targeting the terms that these companies impose on users, the bill seeks to enhance protections for user speech and promote transparency in how platforms manage content.

Contention

The proposal of SB50 has sparked considerable debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill is essential in defending free speech rights and rectifying perceived biases against specific viewpoints, particularly conservative voices that they claim face undue restrictions on social media. Critics, however, warn that the bill could undermine the ability of platforms to effectively manage harmful or abusive content, thereby posing risks to user safety and the integrity of discussions online. This has led to concerns about the potential for misuse or an influx of harmful speech if platforms lose their regulatory powers over content.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

KS SB1

Prohibiting internet social media terms of service that permit censorship of speech and making violations subject to civil fines under the Kansas consumer protection act.

KS HB1333

Relating To Social Media Censorship.

KS HB1333

Relating To Social Media Censorship.

KS SB1432

Relating To Social Media Censorship.

KS SB1432

Relating To Social Media Censorship.

KS HB2280

Social media; censorship; civil action

KS HB250

Civil practice; prohibit censorship by social media platforms

KS SB1048

Censorship of social media; creating cause of action for deletion or censorship of certain speech. Effective date.

KS SB1048

Censorship of social media; creating cause of action for deletion or censorship of certain speech. Effective date.

KS SB1453

Censorship of social media; creating cause of action for censorship or deletion of certain speech. Effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.