Stopping Big Tech surveillance and censorship of Floridians

WATCH

Governor DeSantis Introduces Groundbreaking Legislation to Protect the Digital Rights and Privacy of All Floridians

On Wednesday, February 15, DeSantis announced his proposal to protect Floridians’ digital rights and privacy from Big Tech companies by creating a Digital Bill of Rights that focuses on protecting Floridians’ privacy, protecting minors from online harms, and eliminating unfair censorship.

The proposal also bans the use of TikTok and other social media platforms with ties to China from all state government devices, and through internet services at colleges, universities, and public schools, and prohibits state and local government employees from coordinating with Big Tech companies to censor protected speech.

This proposal is for the 2023 Florida Legislative Session that begins in March.

“Our Digital Bill of Rights will ensure Floridians are protected from the overreach and surveillance we have seen from Big Tech companies. Today’s proposal builds on our efforts to stop Big Tech censorship and combat the malign influence of China through the removal of nefarious platforms like TikTok from any state supported activity.”

- Governor Ron DeSantis, February 15, 2023

“Big Tech has gone unchecked for too long and has been reckless with our data, causing major concerns about privacy and potentially jeopardizing sensitive state information. I’m proud to stand with Governor DeSantis today to give Silicon Valley a reboot and announce an audacious plan to protect Floridians and keep our children safe online.”

- AG Ashley Moody, February 15, 2023

These executive actions and legislative proposals build upon legislation signed by Governor DeSantis in 2021 that required social media companies to be transparent about their content moderation practices, allowed the Attorney General of Florida to bring action against technology companies that violate the law under Florida’s Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act, and prohibited the de-platforming of Floridian political candidates. 

Read the full proposal HERE.


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