Reject the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA)
Congress has again put forward legislation aimed at controlling what content children see online, known as the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). Lawmakers claim it would prevent kids from seeing inappropriate content online, however KOSA would instead weaponize legal speech online, allowing state Attorneys General to file lawsuits against social media companies and others who host content that they deem “dangerous to children” while providing wide berth for what danger that might actually include.
As we’ve seen recently, state Attorneys General have not shied away from using their power to restrict the rights of trans people to obtain gender-affirming care and this bill would allow AGs to sue companies who post or allow speech that they disagree with, regardless of actual harm. Any conservative hang-up cloaked in “protecting kids” could be subject to lawsuits, such as basic discussions about LGBTQ+ issues, reproductive rights, or even gun safety. It could even be used to shut down websites like 5 Calls who advocate in favor of these broadly popular topics.
Being able to mask this agenda under the guise of “protecting children” is a well-worn path for conservative lawmakers, it seems inevitable that if KOSA passes this law would be abused in states where conservatives hold the seat of Attorney General.
A bipartisan group of Senators are co-sponsors this bill so it is important that you call you Senators regardless of their party affiliation to ensure they do not vote in favor of KOSA.
Contacts for this topic:
Hi, my name is [NAME] and I’m a constituent from [CITY, ZIP].
I’m calling to demand [REP/SEN NAME] oppose S. 1409, the Kids Online Safety Act, also known as KOSA.
This broad legislation does not protect anyone and instead will be used to block any speech that state AGs disagree with.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
IF LEAVING VOICEMAIL: Please leave your full street address to ensure your call is tallied.
