Virginia House Bill HB1195

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22

Caption

Social Media, Commission on; established, report, sunset provision.

Impact

The bill aims to create a structured approach to understanding and addressing the potential dangers posed by social media. The Commission will consist of 20 members, including legislative members, citizen members with expertise in social media policy, and ex officio members from various state departments. This diverse composition signifies a comprehensive effort to include multiple perspectives in tackling social media-related challenges. By identifying harmful practices and making policy recommendations, the Commission will strive to enhance the state's legislative framework related to social media.

Summary

House Bill 1195 establishes the Commission on Social Media in Virginia, tasked with examining the impacts and harms associated with social media platforms. The Commission will focus on content that includes threats or suggestions of violence towards citizens and institutions, seeking to address issues like homicide, suicide, and electoral safety. It is charged with facilitating cooperation between research institutions and social media companies, particularly regarding the examination of online violent rhetoric and its implications for real-world actions.

Contention

One notable aspect of HB1195 is the balance it seeks to achieve between addressing harmful content and respecting free speech rights under the First Amendment. Critics may argue that the Commission's inquiries into social media practices and content moderation could lead to overreach or undue regulation that stifles freedom of expression. Additionally, funding for the Commission is contingent on approval and may raise questions regarding its long-term viability and influence on legislative priorities in the context of social media regulation.