On April 24, 2024, the Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA) provided testimony on Alabama HB 167, a device filter bill, before the Senate Committee on Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Development in Montgomery, Ala.
HB 167 proposes that smartphones and tablets activated in Alabama should automatically activate content filters for "obscene material" for users under 18. CCIA highlighted the challenges of implementing a state-specific default filter, citing technological limitations of mobile devices. The association expressed concerns that the bill's requirements could lead to compliance issues for manufacturers and dissatisfaction among users.
CCIA State Policy Manager Jordan Rodell emphasized the importance of educating parents on existing tools and settings to protect their children online. Rodell stated, "It is imperative to educate parents on the tools and settings already available to them to successfully protect their children online."
CCIA advocated for empowering parents to make decisions regarding their children's online content access rather than burdening device manufacturers with compliance challenges. The association urged Alabama lawmakers to carefully assess the technological complexities of HB 167 before proceeding with the legislation.
In conclusion, CCIA supports the goal of addressing children's online safety concerns but raises significant reservations about the practicality of HB 167. The association emphasizes the need to evaluate alternative approaches to enhance privacy and security for younger users without imposing unattainable compliance obstacles on manufacturers.
