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In the wake of the recent Israel-Hamas conflict, New Jersey Congressman Josh Gottheimer is spearheading a bipartisan initiative to address the spread of disinformation on social media platforms, with a particular focus on TikTok. According to wire reports, the proposed legislation, known as the Stop Hate Act, aims to hold these platforms accountable for the content they host.
The Act would mandate social media companies to publish reports detailing violations on their platforms and the measures taken to address them. This requirement is particularly pertinent when platforms are exploited for terrorist purposes.
The Anti-Defamation League has reported a surge in antisemitism and disinformation since the onset of the attacks by Hamas on Israel last month. The organization has dubbed social media as the “biggest super spreader of hate.”
TikTok, a social media platform which is owned by a Chinese company, has been singled out as a major concern. In response, Gottheimer has sent a letter to the U.S. Attorney General, requesting that TikTok be required to register as a foreign agent.