If enacted, S620 would amend Chapter 75 of the General Statutes to include provisions that allow users of social media websites in North Carolina to initiate civil actions against these platforms if they delete or censor content that falls under the categories of political or religious speech. The bill defines various key terms, including ‘political speech’ and ‘religious speech’, and it provides users with a right to seek damages, potentially up to $75,000 for violations. Additionally, it frames acts of censorship as unfair and deceptive trade practices, thereby subjecting violators to penalties.
Summary
Senate Bill 620, known as the Social Media Accountability Act, seeks to establish stronger regulations that prohibit certain social media platforms from censoring political and religious speech. The bill is premised on the belief that social media websites have become essential forums for public discourse and that residents should be able to express their rights freely within these digital public squares. The legislation aims to encourage transparency and accountability from major social media operators, particularly in how they exercise their censorship functions regarding political and religious content.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding S620 appears to be mixed. Proponents of the bill, often from the Republican side of the legislature, argue that it safeguards free speech rights on platforms that many believe have too much power as arbiters of public opinion. Conversely, opponents—probably including advocacy groups and some legislators—express concerns that the bill could hinder social media platforms' ability to manage harmful content effectively, and further complicate issues related to hate speech and misinformation.
Contention
Key points of contention include the definitions of 'hate speech' and 'obscene material', which may not adequately cover the complexities of content moderation in practice. Critics fear that the bill could lead to the proliferation of harmful content being allowed under the guise of free speech, while supporters contend that it is a necessary step to reclaim user agency against what they perceive as arbitrary censorship from large social media operators. Thus, the debate intensifies the dialogue around the balance between protecting free expression and ensuring safe digital environments.
"Stop Social Media Censorship Act"; creates private right of action for users of social media websites whose political or religious speech has been deleted or censored by social media websites.
"Stop Social Media Censorship Act"; creates private right of action for users of social media websites whose political or religious speech has been deleted or censored by social media websites.