Summary

Requires online platforms that use personalized recommendation systems to notify users the first time they encounter such systems, publish clear and frequently updated descriptions of how those systems work and what data they collect or infer, and offer easy controls (opt-outs, profile edits, category limits, and algorithm switching). Platforms must default users to an input‑transparent algorithm and let users switch to personalized recommendations; the FTC enforces violations as unfair or deceptive acts under existing law. The bill protects trade secrets and preserves platforms’ ability to restrict access to accounts or communities at users’ direction.

• Platforms that use personalized recommendation systems must notify users upon first interaction and maintain clear, updated descriptions of those systems.
• Descriptions must list data categories collected or inferred, available user controls, and the engagement metrics the system optimizes and their relative importance.
• Platforms must default covered users to an input‑transparent algorithm and offer an easy option to switch to the personalized recommender.
• Violations are treated as unfair or deceptive practices and are enforceable by the Federal Trade Commission under its existing authorities.
• The law protects platforms from being forced to disclose trade secrets, confidential business information, or privileged information.
• Platforms may still allow users or groups of users to block or limit other users’ ability to find or interact with their accounts or communities.
• Key technical terms (such as approximate geolocation defined as <5 miles precision) are defined to reduce ambiguity.
• Compliance will create new operational, documentation, and engineering requirements for affected platforms.