The subcommittee expressed strong bipartisan support for preserving access to AM radio, recognizing its importance for emergency alerts, diverse voices, and rural communities.

Ranking Member Schakowski expressed concern that the American Privacy Rights Act does not sufficiently protect biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition. Chair Rogers stated her commitment to working with Schakowski to address these concerns.

Several members, particularly on the Democratic side, called for greater transparency and accountability from Big Tech companies regarding their data practices and the impact of their algorithms on users, particularly children.

The American Privacy Rights Act aims to establish a national standard for data privacy, giving individuals more control over their personal information. Key provisions include a one-click opt-out for data brokers, a ban on targeted advertising to children under 17, and strong data minimization requirements.

Throughout the markup, members from both parties repeatedly stressed the need for bipartisan cooperation and compromise to ensure the success of these bills.

Representatives Oboli and Alber proposed amendments to the American Privacy Rights Act to clarify the definition of "small business." Their amendments aimed to ensure that small businesses are not unnecessarily burdened by regulatory compliance.

The hearing featured a strong emphasis on protecting children online, with several representatives expressing deep concern about the harms caused by social media platforms and advocating for stronger protections.

The Kids Online Safety Act seeks to mitigate the harms caused by social media platforms to children and teens, particularly regarding mental health issues. The bill requires platforms to implement safeguards to prevent and mitigate harms such as suicide, depression, and eating disorders.

Ranking Member Palone expressed concerns about the "duty of care" provision in the Kids Online Safety Act, arguing that it could lead to over-filtering of content and potentially harm users by limiting access to helpful information.

The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act aims to ensure that all new vehicles are equipped with AM radio receivers, emphasizing its importance in receiving emergency alerts and public safety information, particularly in rural areas.

Representative Dingell, while supportive of AM radio, raised concerns about the bill's broad scope, advocating for further study and consideration of the potential impact on consumers and the broader emergency communications infrastructure.