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Platform Accountability for Harmful Algorithm Recommendations

New rules could make large online platforms more accountable for content promoted by personalized algorithms if it leads to severe physical or emotional harm. This means platforms might be held responsible if their recommendation systems actively contribute to injury, potentially changing how content is displayed and promoted online.
Key points
Large online platforms may lose legal protection for third-party content if their personalized algorithms knowingly or recklessly promote harmful information.
The changes apply only to personalized recommendations that materially contributed to severe physical or emotional injury.
Small online businesses (up to 5 million monthly users) and infrastructure services (e.g., web hosting, data storage) are exempt from these new rules.
The rules do not cover search results that are a direct response to a user's query.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_5596
Sponsor: Rep. Pallone, Frank, Jr. [D-NJ-6]
Process start date: 2021-10-15
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Justice Against Malicious Algorithms Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_5596.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-10-15.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Large online platforms may lose legal protection for third-party content if their personalized algorithms knowingly or recklessly promote harmful information.
  • The changes apply only to personalized recommendations that materially contributed to severe physical or emotional injury.
  • Small online businesses (up to 5 million monthly users) and infrastructure services (e.g., web hosting, data storage) are exempt from these new rules.
  • The rules do not cover search results that are a direct response to a user's query.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Pallone, Frank, Jr. [D-NJ-6].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-28.

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