News Releases

ASOP Global Applauds the Reintroduction of the PACT Act

Bipartisan Senate bill would ensure online transparency and accountability for consumer safety

WASHINGTON, D.C. – March 17, 2021 – The Alliance for Safe Online Pharmacies (ASOP Global) issued the following statement in support of the recently reintroduced Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency Act (PACT Act):

ASOP Global is proud to renew our support for the bipartisan Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency Act (PACT Act). This bill would update the woefully archaic Section 230 of the Communications Act, imposing new responsibilities on platforms for the content they host to protect consumers, a key piece of ASOP’s mission.

The PACT Act, sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Senator John Thune (R-SD), works in three key ways to promote transparency, ensure accountability, and protect consumers, including:

  • Requiring online platforms to explain their content moderation practices in a user-friendly policy;
  • Requiring large online platforms to provide protections to consumers by having a clearly defined complaint system to process reports and alert users of decisions within twenty-one days, allowing consumers to appeal decisions with which they disagree;
  • Exempting the enforcement of federal civil laws from Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, eliminating the ability of online platforms to use it as a defense against the pursuit of civil actions online.

ASOP Global looks forward to remaining a resource to Congress as they work diligently to curb the illegal sale of controlled substances and other prescription drugs online appearing via search results, social media, and e-commerce sites. We strongly support these efforts to demand more accountability and transparency from the technology industry as it is critical to protect Americans’ health and safety online.

 

###

ABOUT ASOP GLOBAL

The Alliance for Safe Online Pharmacies (ASOP Global), a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. with activities in U.S., Canada, Europe, Latin America and Asia, is dedicated to protecting consumers around the world, ensuring safe access to medications, and combating illegal online drug sellers.