Contact:
Josh Golin, Fairplay ([email protected])
Fairplay statement on omission of Kids Online Safety Act and COPPA 2.0 from omnibus bill
The following statement can be attributed to Josh Golin, Executive Director, Fairplay
BOSTON, MA —Tuesday, December 20, 2022 —“It is extremely disappointing that lawmakers failed to enact new online protections for kids and teens this Congress. For the past two years, public health experts, whistleblowers, parents and youth have told Congress over and over again that the unregulated business model for digital media is putting young people at risk, undermining their healthy development, and even costing children their lives. Yet in the face of overwhelming evidence and heartbreaking testimonials, Congress chose to prioritize Big Tech’s profits over the wellbeing of young people. It is beyond heartbreaking that preventable harms and tragedies will continue online.
Nevertheless, there were many signs this year that a less manipulative and safer internet for children is coming. California passed groundbreaking legislation, and yesterday, the Federal Trade Commission demonstrated through its Fortnite enforcement action that the Wild West does indeed have a sheriff. Thanks to the tireless advocacy of courageous parents and the incredible leadership of Senators Blackburn, Blumenthal, and Markey and Representative Castor, we came within a whisker of passing the safety by design and privacy legislation that young people deserve. The enormous coalitions we built this year to demand online protections for children will be even more determined, vocal and effective in 2023.”
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