Senators from both parties are urging House Speaker Mike Johnson to reconsider his stance on the Kids Online Safety Act and move forward with its passage without delay. The legislation aims to enhance protections for minors on online platforms by implementing measures such as restricting access to minors' personal data and empowering parents with tools to monitor their children's online activities.
The bill, which has garnered significant bipartisan support, has already been approved by an overwhelming majority in the Senate. However, Johnson had previously indicated that the legislation would not progress until the next Congress, drawing criticism from lawmakers.
Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, a key sponsor of the bill, emphasized that Johnson's opposition stands in stark contrast to the widespread backing the legislation has received. Blumenthal highlighted the backing of prominent figures like Elon Musk and expressed hope that their support would influence incoming President X to endorse the bill, thereby increasing pressure on Johnson.
Despite endorsements from Musk and X CEO Linda Yaccarino, certain tech giants such as Google and Meta have actively opposed the bill, citing concerns about its potential impact on their operations.
The Kids Online Safety Act sailed through the Senate with an impressive 91-3 vote earlier this year and has since made progress in the House Energy and Commerce Committee. However, Johnson has yet to bring it to a vote, citing reservations about potential implications for free speech.
Defending his position, Johnson emphasized the need to strike a delicate balance between online safety and free speech, drawing on his background as a constitutional attorney. He reiterated the importance of getting the legislation right before moving forward with its enactment.
As pressure continues to mount on Johnson from both sides of the political aisle, the fate of the Kids Online Safety Act remains uncertain, with stakeholders closely monitoring developments in the ongoing debate.
