By Scout Nelson
The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation unanimously approved legislation designed to increase transparency on major internet platforms. The bipartisan Filter Bubble Transparency Act, introduced by U.S. Sen. John Thune of South Dakota, moves forward as part of a broader online safety package.
The proposal focuses on giving internet users more information about how online platforms select and display content.
Many large internet platforms use algorithms to organize news, videos, posts, and recommendations. These systems often determine which content appears first based on user activity and other factors. The legislation aims to make those practices more transparent.
Under the bill, covered internet platforms would be required to clearly inform users when secret algorithms are being used to select or prioritize content. Platforms would also need to provide an option for users to view information that has not been curated by those algorithms.
“Consumers deserve more transparency when it comes to how social media and other internet platforms use algorithms to amplify or suppress content on their services,” said Thune. “This bill would help consumers better understand how algorithms are used to select content in their feed and give users more control over what information they are digesting. I’m pleased that the committee has passed my bill as part of the Kids Online Safety Act, and I thank Senator Blackburn for her leadership on this important issue.”
The legislation would also make it unlawful for covered internet platforms to use secret algorithms without meeting the bill’s transparency requirements.
If enacted, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) would oversee enforcement of the law. The agency would have the authority to investigate violations and seek civil penalties when companies knowingly fail to comply.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: South Dakota, Government & Policy