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PBS NC reacts after Congress passes bill that will bring drastic cuts to public media

PBS North Carolina Applauds Congressional Passage of Landmark Online Child Safety Legislation

In a significant victory for child advocacy groups and public broadcasters alike, PBS North Carolina has issued a strong endorsement following the U.S. Congress's recent passage of key legislation designed to enhance online safety for children. The bills in question, the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) and the Children and Teens' Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0), represent a bipartisan effort to address the growing concerns over digital harms faced by young users on social media platforms and other online services. PBS NC, a prominent public broadcasting entity serving the Tar Heel State, has reacted with enthusiasm, highlighting the measures as crucial steps toward creating a safer digital environment for the nation's youth.

The legislation, which cleared the Senate in a resounding 91-3 vote before moving to the House, imposes new responsibilities on tech companies to mitigate risks such as cyberbullying, sexual exploitation, and exposure to harmful content. Under KOSA, platforms would be required to implement default safety settings for minors, provide tools for parents to monitor and report issues, and conduct regular audits to identify and address potential dangers. COPPA 2.0 builds on the existing Children's Online Privacy Protection Act by extending privacy protections to teenagers up to age 17, banning targeted advertising to children, and requiring parental consent for data collection from younger users. These provisions aim to curb the algorithmic promotion of content that could exacerbate mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among adolescents.

PBS NC's response underscores the organization's long-standing commitment to educational content and child welfare. In a statement released shortly after the bills' passage, PBS NC President and CEO Lindsay Bierman emphasized the importance of these laws in safeguarding the next generation. "At PBS NC, we have always prioritized the well-being of children through our programming and community initiatives," Bierman said. "The Kids Online Safety Act and COPPA 2.0 are vital tools that will help protect kids from the pervasive threats lurking in the digital world. We applaud Congress for taking this bold step and urge swift action to ensure these protections become law."

This reaction from PBS NC is not isolated; it aligns with a broader chorus of support from educational institutions, child psychologists, and advocacy organizations. Groups like Common Sense Media and the American Academy of Pediatrics have long campaigned for such reforms, citing alarming statistics on the impact of social media on youth mental health. For instance, studies have shown that excessive screen time and exposure to toxic online interactions can lead to increased rates of self-harm and emotional distress. PBS NC, which reaches millions of households through its educational broadcasts and digital platforms, sees these bills as complementary to its mission of fostering safe, enriching experiences for children.

Delving deeper into the context, the push for KOSA and COPPA 2.0 gained momentum amid a series of high-profile incidents and investigations revealing the dark underbelly of online platforms. Reports from whistleblowers and congressional hearings have exposed how algorithms on sites like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube often prioritize engagement over safety, pushing harmful content to vulnerable users. Parents across the country, including many in North Carolina, have shared heartbreaking stories of children falling victim to online predators or succumbing to the pressures of cyberbullying. In response, lawmakers from both parties, led by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) for KOSA, and Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) for COPPA 2.0, crafted these bills to hold Big Tech accountable.

PBS NC's involvement in this arena extends beyond mere endorsement. As a public broadcaster, the organization has actively engaged in digital literacy programs, offering resources to families on safe internet use. Their popular children's programming, such as adaptations of "Sesame Street" and locally produced educational series, often incorporates themes of digital citizenship and online etiquette. Bierman noted in her statement that PBS NC plans to integrate the principles of these new laws into their outreach efforts, potentially developing new content that educates children and parents about online safety. "We're not just reacting to this legislation; we're ready to amplify its impact through our trusted platforms," she added.

Critics of the bills, however, have raised concerns about potential overreach. Some free speech advocates argue that the measures could inadvertently censor legitimate content or stifle innovation in the tech sector. Tech industry groups, including those representing Meta and Google, have lobbied against certain provisions, claiming they might impose burdensome regulations that could limit access to beneficial online resources. Despite these objections, the overwhelming bipartisan support in the Senate suggests a rare consensus on the urgency of child protection in the digital age. PBS NC addressed these concerns in their response, asserting that the bills strike a careful balance between safety and freedom. "Protecting children doesn't mean curtailing expression; it means ensuring that the online world is a place where they can learn and grow without fear," Bierman explained.

Looking ahead, the fate of KOSA and COPPA 2.0 now rests with the House of Representatives, where similar enthusiasm has been expressed by key figures. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) has indicated strong support, potentially paving the way for a vote before the end of the year. If passed and signed into law by President Biden, who has voiced approval for child safety initiatives, these acts could set a global precedent for online regulation. For states like North Carolina, which boasts a vibrant tech scene in areas like the Research Triangle, the legislation could influence local businesses and educational policies.

PBS NC's reaction also highlights the role of public media in bridging gaps between policy and community needs. As a non-profit entity funded in part by viewer donations and government grants, PBS NC serves diverse audiences, from urban centers like Charlotte and Raleigh to rural communities in the Appalachian region. Their programming often addresses local issues, including digital divide challenges that exacerbate online risks for underserved children. By championing these bills, PBS NC positions itself as a leader in advocating for equitable access to safe technology.

The broader implications of this legislation extend to mental health services and educational reforms. Experts predict that with stronger online protections, schools and broadcasters like PBS NC could focus more on positive digital engagement, such as interactive learning apps and virtual classrooms. In North Carolina, where public education faces ongoing challenges, these laws could complement state initiatives aimed at improving child welfare. For example, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction has already partnered with PBS NC on media literacy curricula, which could be expanded under the new framework.

In conversations with stakeholders, it's clear that the passage of these bills marks a turning point. Child advocate Sarah Thompson, a North Carolina-based psychologist, praised PBS NC's stance: "Public broadcasters like PBS NC are on the front lines of educating families. Their support for KOSA and COPPA 2.0 sends a powerful message that child safety is a collective responsibility." Similarly, tech policy analyst Dr. Michael Rivera from Duke University noted the bills' potential to reshape industry standards: "This isn't just about punishment; it's about proactive design that puts kids first."

As the legislative process unfolds, PBS NC remains committed to monitoring developments and engaging with its audience. The organization has encouraged viewers to contact their representatives in support of the bills, fostering a grassroots movement for change. In an era where digital threats evolve rapidly, the proactive stance of entities like PBS NC underscores the importance of vigilance and collaboration.

Ultimately, the congressional action and PBS NC's positive reaction reflect a growing recognition that the internet, while a powerful tool for education and connection, must be navigated with care—especially for the youngest users. As Bierman concluded in her statement, "This is more than legislation; it's a promise to our children that we will protect them in every space they inhabit, online and off." With the potential for these bills to become law, the future looks brighter for safer digital experiences, and PBS NC stands ready to lead the way in North Carolina and beyond.

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