A gun rights organization has accused YouTube of promoting an 'ominous narrative to minors that firearms are evil' by implementing new age restrictions on videos featuring firearms. Gun Owners of America expressed their concerns in a letter to YouTube CEO Neal Mohan, labeling the platform's new 'firearms policy' as a 'matter of grave concern.'
Starting June 18, Google will prohibit content demonstrating how to remove safety devices and will age-restrict videos showing homemade firearms, automatic firearms, and certain firearm accessories. Gun Owners of America criticized this move, stating that restricting access to adults for constitutionally-protected content is unjust and could influence young individuals to view firearms negatively.
YouTube defended its policy updates, citing the need to align guidelines with current content trends. The platform mentioned the rise of 3D printing as a reason for expanding restrictions on homemade firearms content. YouTube consulted with law enforcement and public safety experts to determine the appropriate boundaries for firearm-related videos.
Gun Owners of America expressed apprehension that the policy changes could infringe on First and Second Amendment rights. The organization raised suspicions about the timing of the alterations during an election cycle and questioned potential influences from gun control groups or political entities.
In their letter to Mohan, the group posed seven questions regarding the policy change, including inquiries about government involvement and external pressures. They emphasized the significance of the issue in relation to millions of Americans' rights and urged YouTube to address their concerns promptly.
