Florida Congressman Jimmy Patronis has introduced legislation to repeal Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which protects interactive computer services from liability for user-generated content.

The bill, HR 7045, was introduced in the House of Representatives earlier this week. A statement posted on Rep. Patronis' website declared that "For too long, the law has prevented parties harmed by online content from obtaining relief. Instead of protecting our younger generations from sensitive content, these sites prioritize profit over safety while continuing to push out harmful, explicit, and dangerous materials without any accountability."

Background on Section 230

Section 230 was enacted in 1996 as part of the Communications Decency Act. It provides a liability shield for interactive computer services, including social media platforms and adult websites, from being held liable for user-generated content.

The law has been criticized by some lawmakers who argue that it allows tech companies to profit from illegal and harmful content without facing consequences. Right-wing critics have also claimed that Section 230 is used as a shield to censor conservative speech and limit platforms' right to moderate content as they see fit.

Other Repeal Bills in Congress

Rep. Patronis' bill is not the only legislation aimed at repealing or modifying Section 230. Two other bills are currently pending in Congress: HR 6746, the Sunset to Reform Section 230 Act, and S 3546.

HR 6746 would amend Section 230 by adding that "This section shall have no force or effect after December 31, 2026." S 3546 would repeal Section 230 effective two years following enactment.

Industry Concerns

Industry attorneys and advocates have voiced strong concerns that opening up Section 230 to tinkering could easily pave the way for a variety of specific "carve-outs," in the tradition of FOSTA/SESTA's exemptions revoking liability protections for certain types of content.

Rep. Patronis' Views on Big Tech

Rep. Patronis has been vocal about his concerns regarding Section 230 and its impact on society. In a statement filed in the Congressional Record, he wrote that "Big Tech destroys our communities and the people in them." He also stated that "Section 230 was intended for an internet of the past. This industry is the only one in America allowed to knowingly harm children and to push parents to the sidelines."

Key Facts

  • Rep. Jimmy Patronis has introduced legislation to repeal Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act.
  • The bill, HR 7045, was introduced in the House of Representatives earlier this week.
  • Two other bills aimed at repealing or modifying Section 230 are currently pending in Congress: HR 6746 and S 3546.
  • Industry attorneys and advocates have voiced concerns that opening up Section 230 to tinkering could lead to specific "carve-outs."
  • Rep. Patronis has filed a statement in the Congressional Record detailing his views on Big Tech and its impact on society.