Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S37

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Relative to protecting the residents of the Commonwealth

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would prohibit employees of the Commonwealth from downloading or using applications from specified social media companies on government-issued electronic devices. The bill's primary intent is to enhance cybersecurity by preventing employees from inadvertently exposing sensitive government data to foreign entities. To ensure compliance, the Secretary of the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security is tasked with developing a plan to expunge related software from state networks and to conduct ongoing risk assessments regarding the identified social media companies.

Summary

Bill S37 proposes amendments to Chapter 7D of the Massachusetts General Laws aimed at regulating the use of social media applications by employees of the Commonwealth and its subdivisions. Specifically, it defines 'social media companies' based on criteria such as user engagement and potential foreign influence. Companies like TikTok and WeChat are explicitly highlighted as entities of concern due to their connections to nations deemed as potential threats, including China and Russia. The bill asserts that these platforms pose surveillance risks to Massachusetts residents.

Contention

The bill raises important discussions about the balance between security and freedom of information in the digital age. While supporters advocate for the necessity of protecting citizens from potential data breaches by foreign-controlled companies, critics might argue that the restrictions placed on government employees could hinder communication and operational efficiency. Moreover, the bill's effectiveness in actually mitigating surveillance risks from social media is a point of debate among technology and legal experts.

Companion Bills

MA S1948

Similar To Relative to providing direct relief to the residents of the commonwealth by increasing the threshold on no tax status

MA S1260

Similar To Expanding access to trauma informed care and mental health first aid training

MA S740

Similar To To ensure equitable health coverage for children

MA S2539

Replaced by Relative to cybersecurity and artificial intelligence

Previously Filed As

MA H82

Relative to protecting the residents of the Commonwealth

MA H102

Relative to protecting the residents of the Commonwealth

MA HB1081

ANTI-SOCIAL CCP Act Averting the National Threat of Internet Surveillance, Oppressive Censorship and Influence, and Algorithmic Learning by the Chinese Communist Party Act

MA SB347

Averting the National Threat of Internet Surveillance, Oppressive Censorship and Influence, and Algorithmic Learning by the Chinese Communist Party Act ANTI-SOCIAL CCP Act

MA HB7521

Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act

MA S2538

Strengthening health care protections in the Commonwealth

MA S1129

Relative to protecting the residents of the Commonwealth from dangerous persons

MA S1270

Relative to protecting the residents of the Commonwealth from dangerous persons

MA H2687

Relative to protecting Massachusetts residents against federal government surveillance

MA HB12

AN ACT relating to online protections for minors.

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