The decision could have broad implications for the future of tech regulation as states across the country consider legislation similar to the Texas law. The opinion was written by Judge Andrew Stephen Oldham, who was nominated by former President Trump. He was joined by Judge Edith Jones, a Reagan nominee. Judge Leslie H. Southwick, a nominee of George W. Bush, concurred in part and dissented in part. The justices ruled that while the First Amendment guarantees every individual’s right to free speech, it does not guarantee corporations the right to “mystery speech.” The decision creates a split between two circuit courts on key issues that could potentially have to be resolved by the Supreme Court. Earlier this year, the 11th Circuit Court blocked key provisions of a social media law passed by Florida’s Republican-led legislature. Federal judge blocks Florida law that would have penalized social media companies Tech industry representatives said they disagreed with the decision and said they were evaluating options for an appeal. “What could be more Orwellian than the government claiming to protect speech by dictating what businesses must say,” said Matt Schruers, president of the Computer & Communications Industry Association, which had challenged the Texas law. “Texas law compels private businesses to distribute dangerous content ranging from foreign propaganda to terrorist incitement that puts Americans at risk.” California’s new law is likely to reignite the battle for social media moderation This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
