Google at Odds With Tech Associations Over Pa. Kids’ Safety Bill

Online Safety Protection Act (HB-1879). Pennsylvania’s House Children and Youth Committee voted 15-9 to pass the bill Tuesday, with one Republican in favor. The legislation would require online platforms consider the “best interests of children” when developing products and features “children are likely to access.” Violators would face potential civil penalties enforced by the attorney general. CCIA and NetChoice have argued similar measures passed in California, Maryland and Vermont are unconstitutional, given the free speech implications for children. Committee staff on Tuesday listed Google as a supporter and the four associations as opponents. Google previously declined comment on why it supports the measure, and the company didn’t comment Tuesday. Chair Donna Bullock (D), who wrote the bill, successfully passed an amendment Tuesday with new language meant to address critics’ concerns about “vague” wording outlining what keeping children’s “best interests” in mind means. However, Rep. Charity Grimm Krupa (R) said the amendment fails to address concerns from Attorney General Michelle Henry (D) about enforceability. Krupa said she agrees with ranking member Barry Jozwiak (R), who previously said the bill is unenforceable due to its “overly broad” terms and definitions. The measure's intent is “good,” but sponsors haven’t addressed issues raised by Jozwiak, Henry and the industry groups, she said. Henry’s office didn’t comment Tuesday. Bullock said parents have an obligation to show children how to use social media platforms safely, but they can’t “do it alone.” Parents don’t understand every aspect of the technology and what’s “happening behind the scenes,” she said. Platforms should make these services “age-appropriate” and prioritize the safety of children over profits, she added.