Congressional subcommittee explores online safety risks for children amid tech accountability demands

In a powerful call to action, the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce convened a subcommittee hearing on March 26, 2025, to address the urgent need for enhanced online safety measures for children. The session highlighted the alarming rise of online exploitation and cyberbullying, with lawmakers emphasizing the necessity for immediate legislative action.

Chairman of the subcommittee opened the hearing by stressing the critical importance of protecting children from online dangers, stating, "Technology has created a wonderful tool... But with every new great tool, malicious actors have found a way to refigure technology to spread malice." He pointed to the disturbing trend of artificial intelligence being used to create nonconsensual intimate images of children, a practice that has escalated beyond imagination. The chairman expressed deep concern over the emotional and psychological toll on victims, urging Congress to take a holistic approach to establish robust online protections.

Among the legislative efforts discussed was the Kids Online Safety Act, which aims to equip parents with necessary tools to safeguard their children from harmful content. The chairman criticized big tech companies for their inadequate responses to these issues, declaring, "No more excuses... We have to hold big tech accountable." He underscored the bipartisan nature of the issue, stating, "This is not a political circus... We've gotta save our kids."

The hearing also featured poignant testimonies from parents affected by online harassment. The tragic story of McKenna Brown, a 16-year-old who took her life after being victimized by cyberbullying, was shared to illustrate the real-world consequences of inaction. Her mother, Cheryl, has since become an advocate for legislative change, emphasizing the need for parents to have the tools to protect their children.

As discussions unfolded, the ranking member from Illinois expressed frustration over recent efforts to dismiss key members of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) who have been instrumental in child protection initiatives. She argued that these actions undermine the progress made in safeguarding children online.

The hearing concluded with a strong commitment from lawmakers to prioritize the safety of children in the digital landscape, signaling a renewed urgency to enact meaningful legislation that addresses the evolving threats posed by technology. The committee's determination to act reflects a growing recognition that protecting children online is a shared responsibility that transcends political divides.