NE Washington News

Washington D.C. — House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology Chair Bob Latta (R-OH) delivered the following opening remarks at today’s subcommittee hearing titled “Legislative Proposal to Sunset Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act.”

“Since 1996, Section 230 protections have allowed the U.S. tech industry to flourish,” Latta stated. “This legal framework emboldened Americans to pioneer, creating Internet and social media platforms that promote innovation, user content, and social media interaction. Its intent was to provide online platforms immunity from liability for content posted by third-party users.”

Latta noted that while the law facilitated significant growth in the internet sector, it also brought unforeseen challenges. “But as the Internet exploded in growth, it also increased challenges that were not contemplated when the law passed in 1996,” he said. “Section 230 must be reformed.”

Highlighting issues such as online sex trafficking, illegal arms sales, child pornography, and other illicit activities prevalent on many platforms, Latta emphasized the need for accountability. “In response, Big Tech platforms hide behind Section 230’s broad immunity,” he remarked. “We need to reform Section 230 to hold platforms accountable for the role they play in facilitating and enabling harmful behavior.”

Addressing concerns about potential First Amendment violations with amending or repealing Section 230, Latta argued that no other industry enjoys complete protection from liability for harm caused by their actions. He drew comparisons with newspapers and broadcasters who can face defamation suits.

“Over the past several Congresses, there have been numerous proposals to hold Big Tech accountable for when it acts as a publisher in moderating content on its platforms but to no avail,” Latta stated. He introduced a discussion draft aiming to sunset Section 230 effective December 31, 2025.

“I hope this legislation will bring people together—including those who support, oppose, or are interested—to carefully discuss Section 230 reforms,” he added. According to Latta, Big Tech’s behavior has united Republicans and Democrats in seeking a long-term solution.

Latta concluded by stressing Congress's responsibility: “Congress has a monumental task ahead—but we must reform the law in a way that will protect innovation and promote free speech... It is up to Congress—not the courts—to reform Section 230."

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