This bill, known as the SOCIAL MEDIA Act, aims to significantly improve communication and cooperation between social media platforms and law enforcement agencies. It mandates that within 90 days of enactment, each social media platform must establish a dedicated, publicly accessible law enforcement portal. This portal will provide clear contact information, including a 24/7 United States-based call center, and outline the platform's policies regarding user notification during law enforcement investigations.

To enhance data collection and reporting on illicit activities, the bill establishes the Federal Trade Commission Platform Safety Advisory Committee. This 11-member committee, comprising representatives from various law enforcement agencies, social media platforms, and advocacy groups, is tasked with recommending uniform reporting metrics to the FTC. These metrics will cover platforms' efforts in monitoring and removing illegal or illicit content, their collaboration with law enforcement, and their responsiveness to inquiries.

The recommended metrics will specifically include data on accounts promoting counterfeit substances or fentanyl, platforms' referral procedures for such content, and their average response times to law enforcement subpoenas and warrants. The Advisory Committee will also publish an annual public report comparing platforms based on these metrics. The FTC is required to review these recommendations, issue guidance to platforms on adopted metrics, and ensure annual public reporting by platforms.

Violations of the mandated law enforcement portal requirements or the annual reporting obligations will be treated as unfair or deceptive acts or practices under the Federal Trade Commission Act. The FTC is granted broad enforcement powers, including jurisdiction over common carriers and non-profit organizations typically exempt from its authority. This framework ensures accountability and aims to foster a safer online environment by improving transparency and responsiveness to law enforcement needs.