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S 4749 Cleared committee

Creates a federal lawsuit right that lets people sue federal officials who pressure broadcasters, online platforms, or AI providers to remove or change lawful speech, and requires a public government portal logging such communications.

Official title: JAWBONE Act

Next stop Senate floor: awaiting a vote
Timeline each lane is a chamber; dates pull from congress.gov actions
Senate
Introduced 11-JUN-2026
Referred 11-JUN-2026
Approved by committee 16-SEP-2026
Key points
  • Makes it unlawful for federal officials to coerce broadcasters, interactive computer services, or AI system providers into taking content actions, with exceptions for lawful investigations, warrants, and official use of the platform
  • Allows affected people, including information content providers, to sue the responsible official for compensatory damages, attorney fees, and equitable relief, but not punitive damages
  • Requires the Office of Science and Technology Policy to run a searchable public website and portal for covered communications, with NIST setting standards and inspectors general auditing compliance
  • Lets state attorneys general sue on behalf of residents harmed by a violation
AI-generated from the Introduced in Senate text of 11-JUN-2026 · verify · report an error
Official CRS summary

No CRS summary yet. CRS writes one for most bills, often months after they move.

CRS is the Library of Congress's nonpartisan research office. Check on congress.gov
Committee referrals (1) Policy area

Science, Technology, Communications

Sponsor Ted Cruz (R-TX) Cosponsors · 1
■ 1 D
1 Democrat