EU Countries & Lawmakers May Reach Digital Services Act Deal By June

EU lawmakers and countries could reach a deal by the end of June on proposed tech rules forcing online platforms to better police the internet despite differences in their approach, reported Reuters.

Since its introduction by the European Commission in December 2020, the Digital Services Act has been discussed by European lawmakers as a way to coerce tech multinationals into policing their platforms. If companies fail to do so, they could be fined as much as 6% of their global turnover.

Related: How The EU’s New Digital Services Act Can Help Build Trust And Tackle Illegal Content

Specifically, the Digital Services Act takes aim at illegal and harmful content, with platform holders required to take such items down in a prompt manner. This includes online marketplaces, social networks, content-sharing platforms, digital storefronts like the App Store, and other online services.

The first of its kind in the world, Vestager’s proposal needs to be agreed by EU countries and lawmakers before it can become law.

“I am optimistic we can make a deal before the end of June,” lawmaker Christel Schaldemose said in an interview.

Her comments came ahead of talks with French Digital Affairs Minister Cedric O and EU industry chief Thierry Breton on Tuesday, their second meeting on the issue. A third is scheduled for March 15.

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