Bill > H7954

This bill, titled the Digital Platform Transparency and Democratic Integrity Act, aims to regulate how certain large social media platforms, defined as "covered platforms" with over one million monthly active users nationally that allow user-generated content, utilize their algorithms. It requires these platforms to publicly disclose in plain language the main factors influencing how content is ranked, recommended, amplified, or suppressed, whether engagement metrics or paid promotions affect visibility, and if user data is used for personalization. Additionally, covered platforms must clearly inform Rhode Island users if content is presented chronologically or algorithmically and implement measures to detect and clearly label "synthetic media"—content materially altered by artificial intelligence that could mislead users about real individuals, statements, or events. The bill prohibits covered platforms from misrepresenting their algorithms, falsely claiming neutrality when algorithms significantly alter content visibility without disclosure, knowingly failing to provide required disclosures, or knowingly permitting coordinated inauthentic behavior by foreign-controlled entities after being notified. Violations, which are considered unfair and deceptive trade practices, can result in civil penalties of up to $10,000 per knowing violation, enforced by the attorney general, and Rhode Island residents harmed by a violation can seek legal relief. The bill emphasizes that it is content-neutral and does not require platforms to monitor user speech or remove specific content, and it takes effect upon passage.

Business and Industry

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