NetChoice Sues Maryland Over Child Online Protection Law

NetChoice has filed its tenth lawsuit challenging state internet regulations, this time targeting a Maryland law designed to protect children from harmful online content. NetChoice argues the law is an unconstitutional speech restriction, pointing to Maryland's existing online privacy laws. Building on previous Supreme Court victories establishing content moderation as First Amendment protected, NetChoice challenges a reporting requirement mandating platforms report their services' impact on children. They contend this allows subjective determination of 'best interests of children', leading to discriminatory enforcement. NetChoice maintains that even well-intentioned child safety measures can backfire, potentially creating data vulnerabilities. The lawsuit highlights the ongoing tension between online safety and free speech.