In recent years, legislators have grown increasingly concerned about social media conglomerates. Do these companies unfairly censor speech? When Texas passed a law that limited large-scale social media companies such as Facebook and Twitter from removing content on their sites or “interfer[ing] with digital expression,” the companies declared it unconstitutional under the First Amendment. The companies argued they are not public utilities, subject to state regulation, but instead like newspapers that exercise editorial discretion. The Supreme Court agreed with the social media companies preventing the law from being put into action. However, the decision has been appealed and the case continues to move through the courts.

For this “Ideas on Tap,” we’ve assembled a panel of legal experts and legislature watchers to help us think about whether social media companies can be regulated by the individual states. What is the state’s obligation to protect its citizens, to fight monopolies? Can a state’s laws limit the First Amendment rights of these companies?

Cost is $15 per person and includes appetizers and one beverage (beer, wine, or non-alcoholic drink)

To Register: eventbrite.com/e/ideas-on-tap-this-post-has-been-flagged-free-speech-and-social-media-tickets-337403953307