Texas House Bill HB20

Texas 2021 - 87th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to complaint procedures and disclosure requirements for and censorship of users' expressions by social media platforms.

Impact

This bill introduces new obligations for social media platforms, particularly those with over 50 million active users in the U.S. It lays the groundwork for users to challenge content moderation actions perceived as unlawful or biased, ensuring that basic rights to free expression are not impeded by the platforms. Additionally, the bill seeks to enforce transparency in how platforms curate and manage content, allowing the public to access vital information that can inform their decisions regarding the use of these services.

Summary

House Bill 20 (HB20) primarily addresses the complaint procedures and disclosure requirements associated with social media platforms. The bill asserts that social media platforms should be considered common carriers with a public interest, emphasizing the need for protecting the free exchange of ideas and information among users. By establishing guidelines for user complaints and mandating certain disclosures, the legislation aims to enable users to better understand how their content is managed and moderated by these platforms, effectively increasing accountability for tech companies noted for having significant market influence.

Contention

Opposition to HB20 centers around concerns that it may infringe on the operational autonomy of social media companies, potentially complicating the management of harmful content while also imposing arduous regulations. Critics argue that mandating extensive reporting and user notification about content moderation can overwhelm platforms and divert resources away from innovation and user safety measures. Further discussions highlighted the potential clash between state-level regulations and federal laws concerning digital communication, particularly around issues of free speech versus content moderation responsibilities.