Bots Research Act

(a) Study. The task force established under section 2 shall conduct a study of the impact of automated accounts on social media, public discourse, and elections, including an assessment of—

(1) what qualifies as a bot or automated account;

(2) the extent to which automated accounts are used;

(3) how automated accounts are used; and

(4) how to most effectively combat any use of automated accounts that negatively effects social media, public discourse, and elections while continuing to promote the protection of the First Amendment with respect to the internet.

(b) Task Force Considerations. In carrying out the requirements of this section, the task force shall consider, at a minimum—

(1) the promotion of technological innovation;

(2) the protection of First Amendment and other constitutional rights of social media users;

(3) the need to improve cybersecurity to ensure the integrity of elections; and

(4) the importance of continuously reviewing relevant regulations to ensure that such regulations respond effectively to changes in technology.

(c) Report. Not later than 1 year after the establishment of the task force, the task force shall develop and submit to Congress and relevant Federal agencies the results and conclusions of the study conducted under subsection (a).