Free Speech Protection: Prohibiting Federal Censorship of Online Content
This act aims to protect citizens' freedom of speech online by prohibiting federal employees and contractors from directing online platforms to remove or restrict content. It introduces severe penalties for officials who violate these rules and allows citizens to sue government agencies for infringements. This ensures the government cannot influence what people can say and read online.
Key points
Federal officials are prohibited from directing online platforms to censor content, including removal, blocking, or labeling as disinformation.
Violations by officials can lead to dismissal, significant financial penalties, and loss of clearances.
Citizens whose free speech is violated can sue government agencies and employees.
The act requires government agencies to regularly report on communications with online platforms, increasing transparency.
The Disinformation Governance Board is terminated, and funding for similar entities is prohibited.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_188
Sponsor: Sen. Paul, Rand [R-KY]
Process start date: 2025-01-22