Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that European laws and regulations unfairly and unreasonably burden American speech and innovation.
Summary
This House Resolution expresses disapproval of European digital regulations, such as the EU's Digital Services Act and the UK's Online Safety Act, arguing they unfairly burden American speech and innovation. It calls on the Trump administration to use diplomatic and economic tools to protect the free expression rights of US citizens and American companies. The resolution also urges the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission to reject the antitrust principles underlying these European laws and not cooperate in their enforcement.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this resolution would likely lead to increased diplomatic and economic pressure on European nations regarding their digital regulations. It could also influence the DOJ and FTC's approach to antitrust enforcement and international cooperation. This may result in trade disputes or altered international standards for content moderation and digital markets.
Potential Benefits
- Protection of First Amendment rights of American citizens from foreign regulations.
- Support for American companies by preventing unfair burdens and trade barriers.
- Promotion of American innovation by preventing regulations that act as a tax on innovators.
- Reinforcement of free market principles and the free exchange of ideas.
- Potential for stronger US influence on international digital policy.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for strained relationships with European allies due to economic and diplomatic pressure.
- Risk of retaliatory measures from Europe, harming American businesses operating there.
- Possible weakening of international efforts to address harmful online content, such as hate speech and misinformation.
- Could be viewed as an attempt to impose US standards on other nations.
- May hinder global cooperation on digital regulation and antitrust enforcement.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the First Amendment of the US Constitution, which protects freedom of speech. It argues that European digital regulations infringe upon this right for American citizens. The resolution also touches upon principles of due process and fair trade, suggesting that European regulations may violate these principles by imposing unfair penalties on American companies. However, the Constitution does not explicitly address the application of US laws and principles to foreign regulations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).