On February 19, 2026, Vermont state legislators unveiled a new proposal aimed at strengthening communications laws in order to address the rising issue of online harassment and cyberbullying. The proposed legislation, known as the Online Safety Act, seeks to hold individuals and platforms accountable for harmful and harassing communication online.In recent years, there has been a significant increase in cases of online harassment and cyberbullying in Vermont, particularly among young adults and teenagers. Many victims have reported experiencing threats, intimidation, and vicious attacks through social media platforms and messaging apps. As a result, lawmakers have been under pressure to take action to protect residents from the harmful effects of online harassment.The Online Safety Act includes several key provisions to address the issue of online harassment. One of the main components of the legislation is the establishment of a new government agency dedicated to monitoring and enforcing online communication standards. This agency would have the authority to investigate complaints of online harassment and take action against individuals or platforms found to be in violation of the law.Additionally, the Online Safety Act would impose stricter penalties for those found guilty of online harassment, including fines, community service, and in severe cases, imprisonment. The legislation also includes provisions for mandatory education and training on online safety for students, parents, and educators in Vermont schools.Supporters of the Online Safety Act believe that the proposed legislation is a crucial step towards creating a safer online environment for all Vermont residents. They argue that the law will deter individuals from engaging in harmful online behavior and provide victims with the necessary support and resources to address instances of online harassment.However, critics of the Online Safety Act have raised concerns about potential violations of free speech rights and the ability of the government to effectively enforce the new regulations. Some opponents argue that the legislation could stifle open communication and lead to censorship of online content.Despite these concerns, proponents of the Online Safety Act remain optimistic about the potential impact of the proposed legislation. State legislators are expected to debate the bill in the coming weeks, with a vote on the Online Safety Act scheduled for later this month. If passed, Vermont would join a growing number of states taking action to address online harassment and cyberbullying through comprehensive communications laws.