NE Washington News

House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers opened a recent hearing on legislative solutions to protect children online and ensure Americans' data privacy rights with a sobering reflection on the current state of internet usage. She highlighted the alarming statistic that the average American spends nearly seven hours online each day, with a significant portion of that time dedicated to social media platforms.

Rodgers pointed out the negative consequences of excessive online engagement, including increased rates of suicide and depression, as well as heightened polarization and a loss of trust in societal institutions. She expressed concerns about tech companies collecting vast amounts of personal data to manipulate individuals' online experiences and called for a return to the core values of individual liberty and freedom that America was built upon.

Reflecting on the country's founding principles, Rodgers drew parallels between historical struggles against tyranny and the modern-day challenges posed by digital exploitation. She criticized the control exerted by a few powerful entities over personal information, leading to a form of "digital tyranny" where individuals' rights and identities are eroded.

The committee chair emphasized the need for legislative action to empower individuals to control their personal information online and protect themselves from manipulation. She highlighted the importance of initiatives like the American Privacy Rights Act in giving people the right to safeguard their data and ensure their online identities are not used against them.

Rodgers underscored the urgency of addressing online privacy concerns, especially regarding children's safety and well-being. As a mother of three school-aged children, she expressed deep concerns about Big Tech platforms targeting kids with addictive content that can lead to dangerous behaviors. She stressed the importance of enacting laws like the Kids Online Safety Act and the Children's and Teen's Online Privacy Protection Act to provide robust protections for young internet users.

In closing, Rodgers called on Congress to seize the opportunity to pass comprehensive data privacy legislation and reshape the internet as a force for prosperity and good. She thanked her colleagues, including Senator Cantwell and Ranking Member Pallone, for their collaboration on privacy issues and expressed optimism about working together to strengthen privacy protections for all Americans.

For more information, interested parties can contact the House Energy and Commerce Committee at (202) 225-3641. Press inquiries can be directed to (202) 226-4972.