cross-posted from: https://beehaw.org/post/6913131

The proposed Digital Consumer Protection Commission Act by Senators Warren and Graham seeks to create a new federal commission to regulate large tech platforms. However, the bill contains many problematic provisions that threaten free speech and internet freedom. It would require platforms to reveal content moderation policies, provide notice and appeals for all moderation decisions including spam, mitigate “emotional harms” without defining them, and even allow revoking operating licenses for “egregious misconduct.” Many organizations have endorsed the bill without carefully considering its negative impacts on free expression. In summary, while well-intentioned, the bill’s vague and overbroad regulations threaten to chill online speech rather than effectively protect consumers.