FRANKFORT – A bill relating to sex offender’s use of social media was approved on Thursday by the Senate Judiciary Committee.
House Bill 70 is an attempt to clarify and revise Kentucky’s restrictions on internet access for registered sex offenders. Sponsor Rep. Joseph M. Fischer, R-Fort Thomas, said he introduced the measure after a unanimous decision by U.S. Supreme Court in June of last year struck down a similar North Carolina ban.
He explained that HB 70 is an attempt to narrowly tailor Kentucky’s statutes as to meet the new judicial standard and not restrict the First Amendment right to free speech. A federal judge had expressed concern the old restrictions prevented registered sex offenders from even logging onto the website of their local newspaper.
HB 70 would clarify the definition electronic communications, said Fischer, who worked with state police to draft HB 70’s language.
“He has taken our suggestions into his bill and we are very much in support of it,” said state police attorney Heather Wagers.
Sen. Robin Webb, D-Grayson, voted for HB 70 but expressed concern that if the bill becomes law it would also be overturned in court.
Fischer said he thinks the measure could withstand any potential court challenge.
“With these changes I believe that the amended law (HB 79) will withstand constitutional scrutiny and still be a useful tool to help protect young people from known sexual predators,” Fischer said in closing of his presentation before the committee.
HB 70 now goes to the full Senate for further consideration.
