Bots Research Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. DeSaulnier, Mark [D-CA-10]
- Committees
- Energy and Commerce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 9, 2026
Bottom line
This bill establishes an expert task force within the FTC to study the pervasive issue of social media bots and their influence on public discourse and democratic processes, aiming to inform future policy while safeguarding free speech.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to establish a task force within 90 days of enactment. This task force, composed of experts from various sectors, will conduct a comprehensive study on the impact of automated accounts (bots) on social media, public discourse, and elections. The study will assess what constitutes a bot, the extent and methods of their use, and strategies to combat their negative effects while upholding First Amendment protections.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that automated accounts pose a significant and growing threat to the integrity of public discourse and democratic elections by spreading misinformation, manipulating public opinion, and amplifying divisive content. They contend that a dedicated, expert task force is essential to thoroughly understand the scope and mechanisms of this problem, providing a data-driven foundation for effective and constitutionally sound policy solutions that protect both free speech and electoral integrity.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that establishing another task force could be an unnecessary bureaucratic step, potentially duplicating efforts already underway by social media companies, academic researchers, or other government agencies. They may also express concerns that any government-led study, even one explicitly mentioning First Amendment protections, could inadvertently lead to recommendations that infringe on free speech or legitimate online expression, or that it could be used to justify censorship.
The bill is very short and straightforward, making it highly accessible for any reader to understand its core purpose and provisions within minutes.
Section 2(a)
Establishment of the Bots Research Task Force
This provision mandates that the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) establish a task force within 90 days of the bill's enactment. The purpose of this task force is to conduct a study and prepare a report on the effects of automated accounts on social media, public discourse, and elections, as detailed in Section 3.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that establishing a dedicated task force within the FTC ensures that the study is conducted by a relevant regulatory body with expertise in consumer protection and fair practices, providing a credible and authoritative assessment of bot impacts.
Critics contend
Some might argue that the FTC may not be the most appropriate agency, suggesting that other bodies like the Department of Homeland Security or an independent commission might be better suited for issues related to election integrity and cybersecurity.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies in balancing the need for a focused study with potential concerns about agency jurisdiction and resource allocation, ensuring the FTC's existing mission is not unduly strained.
Section 2(b), (c), (d)
Expert Membership and Appointment
This section specifies that the task force must include at least one expert each from the Federal Government, academia, non-profit organizations, and industry, along with any other experts the Chairman deems appropriate. Members are to be selected based on their expertise in automation technology and must be appointed within 90 days of the bill's enactment.
Section 3(a), (b), (c)
Comprehensive Study on Bot Impacts and Policy Recommendations
This provision outlines the core mandate of the task force: to study the impact of automated accounts on social media, public discourse, and elections. The study must define what constitutes a bot, quantify their usage, describe how they are used, and propose effective strategies to combat negative uses while protecting First Amendment rights. The task force must consider technological innovation, constitutional rights, cybersecurity for elections, and regulatory review. A report detailing findings and conclusions is due to Congress and relevant federal agencies within one year of the task force's establishment.