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To prohibit Federal employees and contractors from directing online platforms to censor any speech that is protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, and for other purposes.
7/31/2024, 8:05 AM
Summary of Bill HR 9207
The legislation is designed to ensure that individuals are able to express their opinions and ideas without fear of government interference or censorship. By preventing Federal employees and contractors from engaging in such activities, the bill aims to safeguard the fundamental right to free speech that is enshrined in the First Amendment.
In addition to prohibiting government officials from directing online platforms to censor protected speech, the bill also includes provisions for enforcement and penalties for violations. This is intended to ensure that the protections outlined in the legislation are upheld and that individuals are able to exercise their right to free speech without fear of reprisal. Overall, Bill 118 hr 9207 seeks to protect and preserve the right to free speech in the digital age by preventing government officials from infringing upon this fundamental constitutional right.
Congressional Summary of HR 9207
Standing to Challenge Government Censorship Act
This bill prohibits employees and contractors of executive branch agencies from directing or otherwise influencing an internet platform to remove or suppress specific content or users. This restriction extends to the labeling of content as false or misleading, and is applicable to the President and Vice President. Executive branch employees also may not solicit data from internet platforms on specific topics or users, and may not solicit or otherwise accept free promotion on the platform.
This bill also creates a private right of action against agencies and employees who violate the prohibition on influencing content. State and territorial governments, as well as the government of the District of Columbia, may also bring suit on behalf of an individual subject to their jurisdiction. Civil actions may be brought with respect to past, ongoing, or future violations. Further, the bill establishes a rebuttable presumption of liability in a civil action against an agency or employee where the employee is shown to have communicated with a platform about the plaintiff or their use of the platform.
