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SIIA Comments on NTIA’s Efforts to Safeguard Minors Online

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The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) submitted comments to the NTIA on protecting kids online. SIIA highlights the complex relationship between social media and mental health, emphasizing diverse risks and benefits across online platforms. We underscores the need for responsible practices, nuanced policies, and parental education. SIIA advocates for constitutional rights, recognizing teens’ freedom of access and speech. The comments stress collaboration between the government and platforms to address evolving needs in online health and safety. SIIA supports data sharing with researchers to better understand digital platforms’ impacts. We commit to working with the NTIA on policies supporting educational technology and safe online access for children.
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SIIA Urges Congressional Action Against Proposed FTC and DOJ Antitrust Policy Changes

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The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) has joined a coalition expressing collective concerns regarding the proposed changes to antitrust policies by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ). The letter underscores the tech industry’s apprehensions about the potential negative impacts of the proposed changes, aligning with the broader concerns raised in the letter. The joint effort emphasizes a unified stance across sectors, including the software and information industry, against the perceived detrimental effects of the proposed regulatory modifications.

Read the Full Letter Here
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Navigating the Future of Education Technology: SIIA’s Response to the Seedlings to Scale Request

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In response to the Seedlings to Scale Request For Information by the Institute of Education Sciences (IES), the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) highlights the importance of technology in education. With a focus on personalized learning outcomes, SIIA emphasizes the need for diverse perspectives and partnerships involving students, educators, parents, communities, researchers, and technology vendors. SIIA underscores the significance of adhering to state and federal laws regarding the security and privacy of student data in educational technology. They advocate for clear guidelines and collaboration between vendors, educators, and policymakers. Addressing various legal regimes such as FERPA, ADA, and ESSA, SIIA emphasizes the importance of following data privacy policies and implementing best practices, particularly in the context of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). Key Points:
  1. Emphasis on diverse partnerships for successful technology development.
  2. Advocacy for compliance with state and federal laws on student data privacy.
  3. Discussion of legal regimes affecting educational technology.
  4. Introduction of principles for responsible AI use in education.
  5. Commendation of the ED’s investment in educational technology.
  6. Commitment to collaboration with federal agencies for policy advancement.
SIIA commends the Department of Education (ED) for its investment in educational technology and expresses commitment to collaborating with federal agencies to advance policies supporting greater access to high-quality, innovative educational programs.  
Read the Full Letter Here
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SIIA’s Stance on AI and Copyright: Docket No. 2023-6 Insights

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In response to Docket No. 2023-6 on Artificial Intelligence & Copyright, SIIA emphasizes the positive impact of AI on data management but insists on adherence to existing copyright laws. SIIA advocates for a collaborative approach between content owners and AI developers, encouraging licensing agreements. We opposes stringent regulatory measures, urging caution against impeding AI’s transformative potential. Addressing specific questions on fair use, licensing, consent, transparency, and authorship, SIIA emphasizes a case-by-case evaluation and opposes additional labeling requirements for AI-generated material. The association supports existing legal interpretations and emphasizes the evolving nature of AI.
Read the Full Letter Here
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Concerns Over USTR’s Decision on Digital Trade Disciplines

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SIIA has join multiple industry leaders to  express deep concern and disappointment over the Office of the United States Trade Representative’s (USTR) withdrawal of support for proposed World Trade Organization (WTO) disciplines. These disciplines protect cross-border data flows, prevent data localization mandates, prohibit discrimination against American-made digital products, and safeguard sensitive source code from forced disclosure mandates. These disciplines are crucial for U.S. innovation, economic growth, and addressing global challenges. The U.S. has a history of leadership in the digital economy, benefiting farmers, startups, underserved communities, and digital services exports. USTR’s reversal on these issues threatens U.S. competitiveness and legitimizes digital protectionism worldwide, potentially harming American companies and workers. We call on the Administration to reverse this decision and return to its role as a global leader in shaping rules that benefit American workers and align with U.S. priorities and values.
Read Full Letter Here