POLITICO Tech
What Senators Blumenthal and Blackburn took away from the Meta whistleblower’s testimony
Nov 8, 2023
Senators Richard Blumenthal and Marsha Blackburn discuss the revelations from the Meta whistleblower's testimony, highlighting ignored safety recommendations and harm caused by harmful content. They emphasize the need for accountability and transparency in social media platforms and compare big tech to big tobacco, calling for reform. They address concerns about the impact of the Kids Online Safety Act on LGBTQ youth and explain its purpose. They discuss the bipartisan support for the legislation in safeguarding children without imposing content censorship.
24:09
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Quick takeaways
- The Meta whistleblower's testimony highlighted Facebook's negligence and concealment of harmful content, emphasizing the need for accountability and tools to protect children.
- Senators Blumenthal and Blackburn advocate for the passage of the Kids Online Safety Act to hold big tech companies accountable and prioritize safety over profits.
Deep dives
Concerns about content placement on Facebook and Instagram highlighted in whistleblower testimony
The recent whistleblower testimony from Arturo Behar has shed renewed focus on concerns about how content is placed on Facebook and Instagram. Lawmakers, such as Senators Richard Blumenthal and Marcia Blackburn, see this testimony as an opportunity to push for legislation, specifically the Kids Online Safety Act. However, this bill faces challenges as it is currently stuck in the Senate with no companion legislation in the House. Congress also has a busy agenda, including pending government shutdown, AI regulation, and a defense bill.
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