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Algorithmic Justice and Online Platform Transparency Act
2/5/2024, 2:30 PM
Summary of Bill HR 4624
One of the key provisions of the bill is the requirement for online platforms to disclose information about the algorithms they use to make decisions that impact users. This includes information about how the algorithms are developed, how they are trained, and how they make decisions. The goal is to increase transparency and accountability in the use of algorithms on online platforms.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions aimed at addressing algorithmic bias. It requires online platforms to conduct regular audits of their algorithms to identify and address any biases that may exist. The bill also establishes a task force to study and make recommendations on how to address algorithmic bias in online platforms. Overall, the Algorithmic Justice and Online Platform Transparency Act is designed to promote fairness, transparency, and accountability in the use of algorithms on online platforms. It aims to ensure that users are not unfairly discriminated against or harmed by biased algorithms, and that online platforms are held accountable for the decisions made by their algorithms.
Congressional Summary of HR 4624
Algorithmic Justice and Online Platform Transparency Act
This bill establishes requirements for certain commercial online platforms (e.g., social media sites) that withhold or promote content through algorithms and related computational processes that use personal information.
The platforms must
- make disclosures about their collection and use of personal information and their content moderation practices;
- retain specified records that describe how the algorithms use personal information and assess whether the algorithms produce disparate outcomes based on race and other demographic factors in terms of access to housing, employment, financial services, and related matters;
- employ algorithms safely and effectively; and
- allow users to access and transfer their personal information.
If a platform uses algorithms to publish or sell advertising, it must maintain a library of the advertisements. The Federal Trade Commission must also adopt rules concerning deceptive advertising.
A platform's chief executive officer or other senior officer must certify compliance with disclosure requirements.
Additionally, platforms may not (1) employ algorithms or other design features that result in discrimination or similar harms based on demographic or biometric factors, or (2) process information such that it impairs voting rights. Further, users of a platform may not violate civil rights laws using the platform's algorithms.
The bill prohibits waivers or other methods that limit rights under the bill; provides whistleblower protections for individuals who report violations; and authorizes enforcement by specified federal agencies, states, and private individuals.
The bill also provides funding for an interagency task force to study the discriminatory use of personal information by platforms' algorithms.
