Image Credit: capitol.tn.gov
The Tennessee Conservative [By Jason Vaughn] –
Legislation that would force social media platforms to stop censoring citizens failed in the House Banking and Consumer Affairs Subcommittee on Wednesday.
House Bill 1504 (HB1504), sponsored by Representative Monty Fritts (R-Kingston-District 32), aimed to require social media platforms to provide certain information about its content and data management, business practices, and acceptable use policy; prohibit social media platforms from censoring the expression of a user who resides in this state based on viewpoint or geographic location; and impose other related requirements and prohibitions.
After Fritts introduced the bill, the floor was opened for questions.
There was some discussion among representatives about whether the bill would infringe on free market ideals with Representative Kevin Vaughan (R-Collierville-District 95) noting that he could not support the bill because he was a “free market guy” and he did not believe that use of social media platforms was forced on anyone and therefore was not subject to their oversight.
Fritts responded that the intention was to “prevent businesses from deceptive practices” and stated that he felt that was their responsibility.
Finally, Representative Mike Sparks (R-Smyrna-District 49) noted that he would like to see the bill moved to the full committee to continue the discussion.
After all questions and comments were completed, a voice vote was taken. The chairman then asked for a roll call vote.
The bill failed with 4 ayes and 5 noes. Representatives voting against the bill were Rush Bricken (R-Tullahoma-District 47), Karen Camper (D-Memphis-District 87), Jeremy Faison (R-Cosby-District 11), Johnny Garrett (R-Goodlettsville-District 45), and Kevin Vaughan (R-Collierville-District 95)
Representatives voting aye were Chairman Dennis Powers (R-Jacksboro-District 36), Jody Barrett (R-Dickson-District 69), Susan Lynn (R-Mount Juliet-District 57), and Mike Sparks (R-Smyrna-District 49).
About the Author: Jason Vaughn, Media Coordinator for The Tennessee Conservative ~ Jason previously worked for a legacy publishing company based in Crossville, TN in a variety of roles through his career. Most recently, he served as Deputy Director for their flagship publication. Prior, he was a freelance journalist writing articles that appeared in the Herald Citizen, the Crossville Chronicle and The Oracle among others. He graduated from Tennessee Technological University with a Bachelor’s in English-Journalism, with minors in Broadcast Journalism and History. Contact Jason at news@TennesseeConservativeNews.com
5 Responses
Apparently those voting “no” are not on social media; anyone with an active account knows that the algorithms limit your experience by putting you in your ghetto, your echo chamber, if not outright banning your expression.
Hey legislators! You are showing your ignorance here on so many levels. Ultimately, you are on the wrong side of free speech and therefore on the wrong side of history.
Tennessee needs to lead, not fear and cower, on the issues of freedom for people. Let’s do better for the people.
As long as you have rock ribbed Rep. “leadership “ like Gov. China Bill Lee and squishy Cam Sexton, this is what you get. Go along to get along.
You are right on.
I hope the voters in there districts see their stand on our constitutional right of free speech.
VOTE THEM OUT
There are just way too many RINO’s in TN. Remember them come election time and vote em’ out!
Just more Republican’s voting as Democrats to censor Conservative Americans. This will NOT be Forgotten Come Election Day!! These Turn coats MUST GO.