As someone who has long advocated for individuals seeking HIV treatment, I have witnessed the immense impact that access to information can have on marginalized communities — and the devastating effects that occur when that access is denied. Since starting my career during the AIDS epidemic, I’ve worked tirelessly to support the HIV community through prevention efforts, compassionate treatment, and advocacy for equal healthcare access.
This deep commitment to ensuring that vulnerable populations can access essential resources is what drives my concern about the Kids Online Safety Act. KOSA, as the bill is known, includes a troubling “duty of care” provision, which could have serious unintended consequences.
By holding social media platforms responsible for moderating content considered “harmful to minors,” it introduces a subjective standard that lacks clear definition, posing a significant risk to both free expression and access to critical health information.
Consequently, this empowers enforcers to suppress content they consider damaging, pressuring social platforms to remove any potentially controversial posts to sidestep backlash. We’ve seen similar initiatives lead to the over-moderation of LGBTQIA+ content, which could threaten essential resources and voices within the community.
Republicans have already indicated their intention to utilize KOSA to restrict access to transgender content online. A recent video featuring Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., one of the bill’s co-sponsors, revealed her assertion that this legislation would enable parents to sue social media platforms if they fail to shield children from transgender-related content. Such assertions not only diminish the value of diverse narratives but also jeopardize the very resources that young individuals may rely on to understand themselves.
In a time when even influential figures like Elon Musk have shown support for legislative measures such as KOSA, it is crucial that we remain vigilant. The support from prominent power players does not dilute the potential ramifications of such legislation on marginalized communities, particularly LGBTQIA+ youth, who need safeguarding rather than censorship.
California has long been at the forefront of civil rights progress, and our Congressional delegation carries a vital responsibility to champion the rights of marginalized individuals across the nation. As we navigate the current legislative landscape, it is imperative that our lawmakers ensure any initiatives aimed at protecting children online do not come at the expense of the progress we have achieved.
In this context, I want to express my gratitude to the California congressional delegation for their willingness to oppose the current version of KOSA and their commitment to working toward a more inclusive and effective solution in the new Congress. I would particularly like to highlight the leadership demonstrated by Representatives Sarah Jacobs and Scott Peters in advocating for a bill that genuinely protects youth without compromising their access to vital information.
Together, we can forge a future where all individuals — especially our youth — are empowered by the information they need to lead healthy, fulfilled lives. Instead of curbing access to critical resources, our focus should remain on ensuring that every child can explore their identity and receive the support they deserve.
Ivy Rooney is the owner of a local independent pharmacy in San Diego. She has worked over 30 years to advocate for and support individuals seeking treatment for HIV and members of LGBTQIA+ community.
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