California's landmark child online safety law suffers a blow as a federal court blocks a key provision, sparking debate over balancing child protection and free speech.
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| A California law aiming to protect children from harmful online content faces a setback as a federal court blocks a key provision due to free speech concerns. |
California, USA, August 17, 2024:
A California law aiming to shield children from harmful online content faces a hurdle, but it's not out of the race yet. A federal appeals court blocked a key part of the law due to free speech concerns, but left the door open for other provisions.
A California law aiming to shield children from harmful online content faces a hurdle, but it's not out of the race yet. A federal appeals court blocked a key part of the law due to free speech concerns, but left the door open for other provisions.
The California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act required online platforms to proactively assess potential risks to children, like self-harm content.
This provision was deemed potentially unconstitutional because it compels companies to express opinions on what content is harmful, raising concerns about free speech rights.
The court allowed parts of the law to proceed, including restrictions on data collection and sale practices related to children's geolocation information.
The court will re-evaluate the entire law to see if it can function without the blocked provision.
California Governor Newsom believes the court mostly supported the state and wants stronger online child safety measures.
NetChoice, representing online companies, views this as a win for free speech and user privacy.
The legal fight continues. The court will decide if the remaining provisions can stand alone.
This case sets a precedent for how states can regulate online content and platforms, potentially impacting future legislation.
The court decision highlights the tension between protecting children online and safeguarding free speech rights.
It remains unclear how California can effectively protect children without infringing on free speech.
This ruling creates an uncertain future for California's online safety law. It's a setback, but not a complete defeat. The court's decision emphasizes the need to find a balance between child safety and free speech in the digital age.