Show-Me State Times

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has issued a Civil Investigative Demand (CID) to Google and Meta Platforms, Inc., including YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. The investigation seeks to determine if these companies have engaged in unlawful practices by suppressing lawful speech and commerce related to firearms and ammunition on their platforms.

Bailey emphasized the influence of big tech companies, stating, “When Big Tech companies hold the power to control what Americans see, say, and believe, they hold the power to reshape the nation.” He added that his office would not allow Silicon Valley to alter constitutional rights.

The CID is authorized under Section 407.040 of the Missouri Revised Statutes. It requires the production of documents and communications relevant to potential violations of Missouri’s consumer protection laws. The focus is on whether Google and Meta used unfair practices such as demonetizing or delisting content about legal firearm acquisition and use.

Allegations suggest that these platforms are obscuring or penalizing content related to firearms and associated topics. Under Missouri law, misleading consumers about services is prohibited, prompting this demand for documentation from Google and Meta.

The CID states that “The right to ‘keep and bear arms’ is one of the most sacred and cherished rights guaranteed” under the U.S. Constitution. It warns against government monopolies on force leading to human rights violations.

This move aligns with Bailey's mission to defend constitutional rights and ensure Missourians can exercise their freedoms without algorithmic interference or bias. “If tech giants are colluding to silence lawful expression about firearms or shut down commerce protected under the Second Amendment, Missourians deserve to know,” said Bailey.

Links to read the full CIDs issued to Google and Meta were provided in the announcement.