SIIA’s Concerns and Alternative Approaches to SB 104 “Children’s Device Protection Act”

In a letter addressed to Chair Hawkins and Members of the House Committee on Judiciary, five business organizations, including ACT, CCIA, CTA, TechNet, and SIIA, express appreciation for efforts to protect children online but voice serious concerns about a proposed bill SB 104. The organizations argue that requiring a state-specific default filter is technologically infeasible and does not effectively address online safety. The letter emphasizes the diverse range of filter technologies in the market and advocates for a risk-based approach to age-specific protections. The organizations propose alternative solutions, citing Florida’s legislation on internet safety training and industry-led campaigns. The organizations urge lawmakers to avoid passing regulations until existing laws are assessed and commit to collaborating on children’s online safety concerns.