Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and Edward Markey have released a joint statement praising the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) proposed update to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) Rule. The proposed update aims to modernize online privacy protections for children and address the exploitative tactics employed by Big Tech to track and target kids online.

The senators emphasized the timeliness of this reform, stating, "This proposed update to the COPPA Rule is critical to modernizing online privacy protections for children and addressing Big Tech’s new tactics that exploit, track, and target kids online. This reform could not come at a more important time."

They commended the FTC for taking action and look forward to working together to protect the privacy of young people online. However, they also stressed that this effort should not replace the need for congressional action. They argued that the 25-year-old COPPA law must be modernized to meet the privacy challenges of today, including extending its protections to teenagers and banning targeted advertising to kids and teens.

The senators highlighted their own legislation, the Children and Teens' Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0), which aims to update online data privacy rules for the 21st century and ensure the protection of children and teenagers online. Cassidy reintroduced COPPA 2.0 in May, and in July, the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee unanimously passed it.

COPPA, enacted in 1998, introduced essential privacy protections for users under 13 years old, including notice and parental consent requirements. However, the senators argue that the law is overdue for an update due to significant changes in the online landscape.

In conclusion, Cassidy and Markey urge swift action in passing COPPA 2.0 to prioritize the well-being of children. They believe that inaction is not an option when it comes to protecting the privacy of young people online.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-markey-release-joint-statement-applauding-proposed-rule-to-update-childrens-privacy-rules/