If sites have to verify age, “the traffic would fall dramatically.
They would have [fewer] people visiting and generate less advertising revenue.
It’s not inconceivable that some would go out of business.”
Violators could face up to $50,000 in fines and six months in prison.
With much more fanfare, the CDA also was initially challenged in this court.
Even if free speech groups win, the case could still go on to a permanent injunction hearing.
If they lose, the law goes into effect February 1.
(CNET: The Computer internet, publisher of News.com, is a member of the ICC.)
Already, testimony by two witnesses has been pushed forward despite earlier confidentiality concerns.
Lawyers will work tonight to settle disputes over other witnesses and confidentiality issues.
On Friday, the government will open its case.
The systems could offer sites an alternative to prosecution.
She said these surfers would likely turn away from such a site if it asked for ID.
“What would be the impact on the businesses if they removed the [questionable] content?”
Or of they “chose to comply with COPA by homogenizing content?”
“Some sites would choose to self-censor,” she said.
But when Foot asked, “Is it your belief that the COPA regulation will stifle innovation?”
Hoffman answered with a resounding, “yes.”
