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Great Falls, Va., July 28, 2023 -- As the President & CEO of Enough Is Enough®®(www.enough.org), I am announcing our strong support of the Digital Consumer Protection Commission Act introduced by Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). This crucial piece of legislation marks a significant step forward in our collective efforts to combat the internet exploitation of children and ensure a safer digital environment for all.
As an organization committed to safeguarding children from the dangers of the internet, Enough Is Enough® recognizes the urgent need for effective measures to protect vulnerable young minds from online harm. The Digital Consumer Protection Commission Act presents a comprehensive approach that addresses the evolving challenges faced by today's children in the digital realm.
The Act's focus on establishing a Digital Consumer Protection Commission is commendable. As a former Commissioner for the Child Online Protection Act, I know the creation of a specialized commission will provide the necessary resources and expertise to tackle the complex issues surrounding the exploitation of children online. This commission will play a pivotal role in conducting research, analyzing industry practices, and implementing policies that safeguard the well-being of our children in the digital space.
Moreover, the Act's emphasis on promoting transparency and accountability among technology companies is what is needed in today’s environment. By holding platforms accountable for their content moderation and data protection practices, we can encourage responsible behavior while ensuring that harmful and exploitative content is swiftly removed from the digital landscape.
Another significant aspect of the Digital Consumer Protection Commission Act is its commitment to fostering collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and child advocacy organizations. Such partnerships are essential to create a united front against online exploitation. Protecting children in the digital world is a non-partisan issue that deserves wide bi-partisan support. Together, we can establish best practices, share valuable insights, and implement innovative solutions to protect children from potential harm on the internet.
Enough Is Enough® firmly believes that education is a key pillar in safeguarding children online. We commend the Act's provisions that prioritize digital literacy and online safety education for children, parents, and educators. By empowering individuals with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate the digital world safely, we can help prevent potential risks and dangers. Enough Is Enough®'s Emmy award winning Internet Safety 101®® multimedia curriculum was the first parent-focused program that was designed to educate, equip and empower parents, caregivers and other caring adults to be the first line of defense to protect children online.
In conclusion, I urge all members of Congress to come together in bipartisan support of the Digital Consumer Protection Commission Act. Protecting our children from internet exploitation is not a partisan issue; it is a moral imperative that transcends political boundaries. By supporting this legislation, we can send a clear message that the safety and well-being of our children are non-negotiable priorities.
Together, we can build a safer, more responsible digital environment for our children, ensuring that they can explore the vast opportunities of the internet without fear of exploitation. Enough Is Enough® stands ready to work alongside lawmakers and stakeholders to make this vision a reality.
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