The PROTECT Act would repeal Section 230 of the Communications Act of 1934, a decades-old law that has shielded internet platforms and websites from liability for user-generated content posted on their services. Currently, Section 230 allows companies like social media platforms, forums, and other online services to host user content without being sued for what users post, while still allowing them to remove illegal or offensive material. Repealing this provision would expose these platforms to potential lawsuits from users harmed by content posted by other users. The bill includes conforming amendments to update references to Section 230 throughout federal law in areas like trademark protection, obscenity laws, and controlled substances regulations. There is no specified funding or implementation timeline beyond the effective date being upon enactment of the law.
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