SCREEN Act Shielding Children's Retinas from Egregious Exposure on the Net Act
If enacted, SB3314 would significantly alter the responsibilities of interactive computer services by requiring them to verify the age of their users. Platforms would be obligated to adopt various technology measures to prevent minors from accessing harmful content, and these measures could include third-party services. By meeting this requirement, the hope is to eliminate or reduce minors' exposure to inappropriate content, which research has shown can lead to negative psychological effects, risky behavior, and addiction. The bill is viewed as a necessary evolution in addressing the challenges posed by increasingly accessible online content.
SB3314, known as the SCREEN Act (Shielding Children's Retinas from Egregious Exposure on the Net Act), mandates interactive computer services to implement technology verification measures to ensure that users accessing their platforms are not minors. With growing concerns about the mental and emotional impact of online pornography on young users, the bill aims to enforce stricter regulations on internet platforms that provide pornographic content, aligning with a compelling government interest to protect minors' physical and psychological well-being.
However, the bill has generated discussion and various points of contention. Critics argue that relying on technology for age verification may not be foolproof and could infringe on privacy rights. Concerns around the implementation costs, the effectiveness of the verification measures, and potential problems related to data security and user privacy have been raised. Opponents also emphasize the potential for overreach, suggesting that while the intent to protect minors is valid, the methods proposed in the bill could lead to unintended negative consequences, including broader impacts on online privacy and civil liberties.