In late July, the U.S. Senate took a monumental step forward in the fight to protect our children in the digital age by overwhelmingly passing the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) and the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0). With a resounding 91 Senators voting in favor, this critical legislation has garnered widespread bipartisan support, underscoring the importance of safeguarding our youth online.
A Non-Partisan Issue with Bipartisan Support
At Global Hope 365, we have been strong supporters of this legislation from the outset. The prevention of online exploitation of children transcends political affiliations and is a cause that unites us all. The overwhelming support in the Senate reflects a shared commitment to protecting the well-being of our children and teens in an increasingly digital world.
The Digital Dilemma
The digital environment, while offering numerous benefits, has also become a breeding ground for exploitation and harm. Vulnerable children, often seeking companionship and compassion online, can find themselves preyed upon by malicious actors. The very platforms designed for connection and communication have, in some instances, become tools of exploitation, causing irreparable harm and, tragically, costing lives.
Key Provisions of KOSA
The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) is designed to address these critical issues by establishing a clear "duty of care" for social media companies when it comes to minors using their products. The Act includes several vital provisions:
Explicit Duty of Care: Social media companies will be required to prioritize the safety of minors using their platforms, ensuring that their products do not contribute to harm.
Tools and Safeguards: KOSA will provide parents and youth with tools and safeguards to protect themselves online, promoting a safer digital environment.
Call to Action: Support KOSA in the House
While we celebrate this victory in the Senate, our work is far from over. The momentum must now continue in the House of Representatives. KOSA (H.R. 7891) currently has 38 bipartisan cosponsors but has yet to be marked up by the House Energy & Commerce Committee. We need your help to ensure this legislation progresses.
How You Can Help
Call Your Representative: Urge your Representative to cosponsor KOSA and to advocate for its markup in the House Energy & Commerce Committee. Emphasize the importance of protecting children from the harms of Big Tech.
Contact Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers: Ask her to prioritize KOSA and to ensure it is marked up promptly.
Spread the Word: Share this message with others who are concerned about online safety for children. Mobilize your community to take action.
Take Action Now!
By calling the offices of your Representatives and sharing this message, you can help ensure that the Kids Online Safety Act becomes law. Together, we can hold Big Tech accountable and create a safer digital landscape for our children.
Conclusion
The passage of the Kids Online Safety Act in the Senate is a significant victory in the ongoing battle to protect our children online. At Global Hope 365, we remain committed to advocating for the safety and well-being of all children. With your help, we can continue this critical work and ensure that KOSA becomes law.
Take action today to support KOSA and protect our children from the dangers of the digital world. For more information and to stay updated on our efforts, visit our website at Global Hope 365.
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