Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) Returns: What You Need to Know

The Reintroduction of the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA)

The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) is once again being considered by Congress. Should it become law, this legislation represents potentially the most substantial overhaul of internet regulation in the United States since the enactment of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) in 1998.

Potential Legal Accountability for Social Media Platforms

Currently, KOSA proposes establishing legal responsibility for social media platforms. This accountability would arise if it’s demonstrated that these companies are failing to adequately safeguard minors from various forms of harm. The bill outlines a comprehensive range of potential harms, including eating disorders, sexual exploitation, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation.

Despite gaining significant support in the Senate last year, the bill ultimately stalled in the House of Representatives.

Controversies and Concerns Surrounding KOSA

Since its initial introduction in 2022, KOSA has been met with considerable opposition.

Organizations dedicated to civil liberties, such as the ACLU, have voiced concerns that the bill could be misused to justify censorship and increased surveillance. While modifications to KOSA have addressed some of these worries, groups like the Electronic Frontier Foundation and Fight for the Future continue to oppose the legislation.

Arguments Against the Bill

Fight for the Future articulated their opposition in a statement, asserting, “The bill’s proponents consistently maintain that it will not affect freedom of speech. However, the ‘Duty of Care’ provision directly concerns speech – specifically, the blocking of content the government deems detrimental to children.”

They further added, “The individuals tasked with determining what constitutes harmful speech are those already employing various tactics to silence marginalized groups and target perceived adversaries.”

Industry Support and Opposition

KOSA has received backing from several major companies, including Microsoft, Snap, and X. Notably, Linda Yaccarino, CEO of X, collaborated with Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) on the latest version of the bill.

Conversely, Google and Meta have expressed opposition. However, Apple recently announced its support for the legislation.

Apple’s Endorsement

Timothy Powderly, Apple’s senior director of Government Affairs, stated, “Apple is pleased to support the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). Protecting children online requires a collective effort, and we believe this legislation will significantly improve children’s online safety.”

He continued, “Everyone has a role to play in ensuring a secure online environment for young people.”