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Bill

HB 652

An Act amending the act of April 14, 1972 (P.L.233, No.64), known as The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act, providing for reporting requirements of interactive computer service providers; and imposing penalties.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Marla Brown and 2 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania would require online platforms to report drug-related activities to authorities, imposing penalties for non-compliance to combat digital drug trafficking.

Referred to Communications & Technology
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 652

Legislative bill overview

HB 652 amends Pennsylvania's Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act to require interactive computer service providers (like social media platforms and online services) to report certain activities to authorities and establishes penalties for non-compliance. The bill specifically targets online facilitation of drug-related activities by imposing new reporting obligations on digital platforms.

Why is this important

As drug trafficking increasingly occurs through online platforms and encrypted communications, this bill attempts to create a reporting mechanism to help law enforcement identify and intercept illegal drug activity. The outcome could significantly affect how platforms moderate content, their liability exposure, and the balance between public safety and user privacy.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional clarity: The bill's language regarding what constitutes reportable activity, what qualifies as an "interactive computer service," and which drug-related activities trigger reporting requirements remains unclear and could be overly broad or create compliance ambiguity
  • Privacy and chilling effects: Mandatory reporting requirements could discourage legitimate online speech, harm privacy expectations, and create liability concerns for platforms, potentially affecting lawful discussions about drug policy or harm reduction
  • Feasibility and cost: Compliance burdens on smaller platforms and services could be substantial, and determining which activities to report may require invasive monitoring or artificial intelligence systems with accuracy concerns

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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