Focus on Digital Services and Digital Markets Acts
European Union lawmakers are heading to Washington next week to address concerns over EU tech regulations. From February 24 to 28, the lawmakers will meet with US officials from the White House, the US Department of State, the US Department of Commerce, and Congress. The meetings follow rising criticism from the Trump administration regarding the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The US has raised concerns that these regulations impose excessive restrictions on US-based tech companies. Specifically, the DSA targets content moderation and places fines on non-compliant platforms, which has sparked backlash, especially from companies like Meta. EU lawmakers discussing this with US tech representatives could help bridge the understanding gap.
US Criticism Targets Freedom of Expression and Compliance Costs
The US government has expressed worries that the DSA could limit freedom of expression. Moreover, the fines imposed by the DSA for non-compliance, especially on American tech giants, have been a significant point of contention. The US claims that these regulations will add significant operational costs for platforms. Lawmakers from the EU will discuss these points with US tech counterparts during their visit.
Sandro Gozi, a member of the European Parliament, stressed that the EU remains firm on enforcing the DSA. He also emphasized that the EU wants to demonstrate its commitment to digital regulation despite the pressure from Big Tech companies and US officials. This visit is crucial as EU lawmakers and US tech leaders seek common ground.
Escalating Trade Tensions Add Complexity to Discussions
These discussions occur amid increasing trade tensions between the US and the EU. The Trump administration’s tariffs on European aluminum and steel, which will take effect next month, have already strained relations. Both sides are now considering reciprocal measures, further complicating the ongoing regulatory talks. Therefore, moments between EU lawmakers and US tech representatives might also touch on trade aspects.
While in Washington, the EU lawmakers will also meet with key figures such as Lynne Parker, Executive Director of the Presidential Council of Advisors on Science & Technology. Additionally, they plan to speak with David Sacks, a Trump advisor on AI, as well as representatives from major think tanks and businesses. Their goal is to address both the future of tech regulations and the escalating trade issues between the US and the EU. These meetings will be crucial, especially for EU lawmakers and US tech relations moving forward.
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