Senate Commerce Committee Advances Bill to Restrict Government 'Jawboning' on Speech
The Senate Commerce Committee has approved, by an 18-10 vote, legislation sponsored by Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) aimed at limiting government coercion of broadcasters and online platforms regarding speech. The bill seeks to address concerns from both parties about indirect censorship, known as 'jawboning.' It would allow individuals, broadcasters, or platforms to file civil actions against government agencies or employees if coercion is used to alter or remove speech. Additionally, the legislation mandates a public database of government communications with broadcasters, platforms, and AI providers. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) voted with Republicans to advance the bill, despite some concerns about its application to artificial intelligence platforms.
