If passed, HB 1162 could enforce greater transparency and accountability within federal agencies by ensuring they disclose any attempts to censor lawful speech. It obligates agencies to report their actions systematically, potentially reshaping how the government interacts with private platforms concerning content moderation. This could lead to heightened scrutiny of past practices and prompt changes in how agencies communicate with social media and other organizations, particularly regarding speech-related actions.
Summary
House Bill 1162, known as the Accountability for Government Censorship Act, mandates that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) report to Congress on any instances of communication between federal agencies and external platforms aimed at censoring lawful speech. The bill stipulates that each agency must provide a detailed report listing any past actions taken to suppress, alter, or restrict lawful speech over a five-year period following the bill's enactment. This entails documenting agency communications aimed at influencing external platforms regarding lawful speech, including specifics about agency personnel involved and the statutory authority for said communications.
Contention
The bill raises notable points of contention, primarily surrounding the balance between regulating harmful content and protecting freedom of speech. Critics may argue that the bill could inhibit legitimate efforts to combat misinformation or harmful content on public platforms, while supporters assert it is vital to safeguard free speech from government overreach. Some legislators might view the enforcement of such reporting as a potential bureaucratic burden, while others may welcome it as a necessary measure for government accountability.
Relating to censorship of or certain other interference with digital expression, including expression on social media platforms or through electronic mail messages.
Protecting Speech from Government Interference Act This bill generally prohibits federal employees from censoring the speech of others while acting in an official capacity. Specifically, the bill prohibits employees of executive agencies or who are otherwise in the competitive service from (1) using their official authority to influence or advocate for a third party, including a private entity, to censor speech; (2) censoring the speech of any person who has a pending regulatory application with, or is the subject of or a participant in an active enforcement action by, the employee's office; or (3) engaging in censorship while on duty, wearing a uniform, or using official government property. Certain presidential appointees may not censor speech at any time, including outside normal duty hours. Employees are subject to disciplinary action, civil penalties, or both for violations. The bill defines censor or censorship to include ordering or advocating for the removal of lawful speech, the addition of disclaimers, or the restriction of access with respect to any platform (e.g., social media).
Relating to censorship of or certain other interference with digital expression, including expression on social media platforms or through electronic mail messages.
"Stop Social Media Censorship Act"; creates private right of action for users of social media websites whose political or religious speech has been deleted or censored by social media websites.