Galaxy Brains Defending Free Speech on the Web with Preston Byrne
Nov 26, 2025
In this discussion, Preston Byrne, a lawyer focused on technology and free speech, dives into the UK’s Online Safety Act and its implications for American companies. He highlights the tension between government regulations and individual privacy, particularly contrasting US and European approaches. Preston shares insights on his pro bono defense strategies against the Act, the challenges of compliance versus counter-attacks, and his optimistic view on the future of free speech amidst rising censorship.
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UK Law Claims Extraterritorial Control
- The UK Online Safety Act asserts extraterritorial power over websites that "connect" to the UK via vague standards.
- Preston Byrne argues this effectively forces American platforms to choose UK access or First Amendment rights.
Pro Bono Legal Counterattack
- Preston Byrne and Ron Coleman agreed to represent four American targets of the Online Safety Act pro bono.
- Their goal was explicit: to "lay waste to the Online Safety Act and destroy it."
Risk Assessments Collide With US Rights
- The Act forces US sites to produce compelled "risk assessment" reports and to remove content on notice and takedown bases.
- Byrne says those obligations clash with US constitutional protections like compelled speech and the First Amendment.
