Colorado Senate Moves to Override Governor’s Veto on Social Media Regulation Bill
In a significant legislative move, the Colorado Senate voted Friday to override Governor Jared Polis’ veto of Senate Bill 86, marking a pivotal moment as the state seeks to regulate social media. This vote, which passed with a strong 29-6 majority, represents the first override attempt in over a decade.
If enacted, SB 86 would mandate that social media companies promptly ban users who violate their terms of service, submit annual reports to the Colorado Attorney General, and enhance cooperation with law enforcement. Proponents argue the bill is crucial for protecting children from online predators and illicit activities, while opponents, including Polis, warn it poses threats to First Amendment rights and grants excessive power to tech companies.
Polis vetoed the bill on Thursday, expressing concerns about its implications for privacy and free speech. He noted that the legislation could lead to increased scrutiny of citizens’ protected speech, a concern echoed by various advocacy groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union and the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression.
Despite the veto, supporters swiftly mobilized for an override, emphasizing the bill’s potential to remove harmful actors from social media platforms. “This is not about censorship; it’s about safeguarding our youngest and most vulnerable citizens,” remarked Democratic Sen. Lindsay Daugherty, a key sponsor of the bill.
The House will now need to vote on the veto override, requiring a two-thirds majority to proceed. Legislative experts note that successful overrides are rare in Colorado, particularly with standalone bills. The last instances occurred in 2011 and 2007.
As the legislature continues its work, the future of SB 86 hinges on action in the House, with a tentative override vote anticipated early next week.
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