Cruz, Wyden Introduce Bill Letting Americans Sue Over Coercive Content Takedown Attempts, Even if 0 Posts Fall
Updated
Updated · The Verge · Jun 11
Cruz, Wyden Introduce Bill Letting Americans Sue Over Coercive Content Takedown Attempts, Even if 0 Posts Fall
3 articles · Updated · The Verge · Jun 11
Summary
A bipartisan Senate bill introduced Thursday would let Americans seek damages when officials illegally pressure social media, AI or broadcast companies to remove content, even if no takedown actually occurs.
The JAWBONE Act would also force public disclosure of government communications with those platforms, aiming to expose informal pressure campaigns before they shape moderation decisions.
Ted Cruz and Ron Wyden framed the measure through different examples: Cruz cited Biden-era pressure on platforms over pandemic misinformation, while Wyden pointed to Trump threats against cable outlets and Brendan Carr's comments about Jimmy Kimmel.
Support from the ACLU, FIRE and Columbia's Knight First Amendment Institute gives the bill unusual cross-ideological backing after the Supreme Court previously found plaintiffs lacked standing and clear evidence in a similar coercion case.
How will a public log of government requests reshape what Big Tech and AI companies choose to censor?
Could a law protecting speech unintentionally shield foreign disinformation campaigns from government intervention?
Protecting Free Speech: How the JAWBONE Act Targets Government Jawboning of Broadcasters and Digital Platforms
Overview
The JAWBONE Act is a major bipartisan legislative effort to address the ongoing problem of government 'jawboning,' where federal officials pressure private entities like broadcasters and digital platforms. This issue has occurred under multiple administrations from both parties, highlighting its persistent nature. The Act aims to prevent government overreach by establishing clear legal boundaries and protecting Americans from interference. By safeguarding the independence of private platforms and communication channels, the JAWBONE Act seeks to uphold free expression and ensure that media outlets can operate without fear of official reprisal or undue influence.