In response to the Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) expresses its appreciation for the opportunity to provide feedback on the SAFE for Kids Act. SIIA advocates for protecting children’s mental health from the adverse effects of social media while ensuring that they have access to vital information and online tools that keep them engaged in their communities. The association emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that safeguards children’s privacy and empowers parents in their children’s online activities. SIIA raises concerns about the potential privacy risks associated with age determination methods, urging that any regulations implemented should prioritize user privacy, limit unnecessary data collection, and recognize the limitations of current technology.
SIIA also highlights the importance of crafting regulations that avoid imposing undue burdens on parents while seeking consent for their children’s online activities. They advocate for a streamlined approach to obtaining parental consent, which would disclose collected information and its usage clearly, thereby minimizing the need for multiple consent requests. By ensuring that regulations are flexible and adaptable to technological advancements, SIIA believes policymakers can create a framework that protects children without stifling innovation or access to essential services. The letter concludes with an offer for further collaboration and assistance in refining these policies for the benefit of children and families.
