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The Big-Tech Accountability Act of 2023
1/30/2024, 5:30 PM
Summary of Bill HR 2635
One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a new regulatory body, the Big-Tech Accountability Commission, which would be responsible for overseeing the activities of big tech companies and ensuring that they are operating in a fair and transparent manner. The commission would have the authority to investigate allegations of anti-competitive behavior, data privacy violations, and other misconduct by tech companies.
The bill also includes measures to increase transparency and accountability in the tech industry. For example, it requires big tech companies to disclose more information about their algorithms and data collection practices, as well as to provide regular reports on their efforts to combat misinformation and hate speech on their platforms. Additionally, the bill includes provisions aimed at promoting competition in the tech industry. It would make it easier for smaller companies to compete with tech giants by requiring big tech companies to provide access to their platforms and data on fair terms. The bill also includes measures to prevent tech companies from engaging in anti-competitive practices, such as using their market power to stifle competition. Overall, the Big-Tech Accountability Act of 2023 is a comprehensive piece of legislation aimed at addressing the growing concerns about the power and influence of big tech companies. If passed, the bill could have a significant impact on the tech industry and help to ensure that tech companies are held accountable for their actions.
Congressional Summary of HR 2635
The Big-Tech Accountability Act of 2023
This bill limits federal liability protection, sometimes referred to as Section 230 protection, that generally precludes providers and users of an interactive computer service from being held legally responsible for content provided by a third party.
Specifically, the bill removes the protection for providers of social media services (e.g., Facebook and TikTok).
Additionally, the bill prohibits a provider of social media services from suspending or otherwise restricting the account of a U.S. citizen based on that citizen's social, political, or religious status. The prohibition applies even if the citizen clearly violates the provider's policies related to hate speech, sexual harassment, discrimination, or violent or threatening speech. A provider that violates the prohibition is subject to civil penalties.
