An Arkansas Bill Takes on Social Media and Cancel Culture

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Legislation limiting who social media platforms can block from their platforms was introduced by Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge Thursday.

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and other platforms would be responsible for damages if they unfairly censor or ban someone according to the Combating Cancel Culture and Protecting Freedom of Speech bill.  The bill also says websites could be in violation of the Arkansas Deceptive Trade Practices Act if they do not act in “good faith”.  A violation could result in a fine of $10,000.

“Cancel culture cannot become the norm in Arkansas, especially when our Freedom of Speech in rural America is in jeopardy,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “This legislation would allow everyone, no matter the circumstances to have an equal and fair opportunity to post online and if a social media giant does not comply, the company can be held accountable.”

The bill, HB1647, is being co-sponsored by State Sen. Ricky Hill (R-Cabot) and Rep. Brian Evans (R-Cabot)

In 2018, a Republican Arkansas representative proposed a bill that would allow social media websites to be sued for removing certain religious and political posts, whether or not the platforms deem the posts to be hate speech. But the bill was withdrawn days later.