In last week’s column, I discussed powerful legislation aimed at stopping child abuse and neglect in Missouri. While Senate Bills 850 and 890, when passed, will do great things for children and those seeking to protect them. This week, I want to discuss federal legislation that aims to protect all children from child predators.
Recently, the president signed into law the “Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act of 2017,” which amends the Communications Decency Act by specifically allowing criminal and civil actions against a website if its conduct violates federal sex trafficking laws. The act also defines a participant as someone “knowingly assisting, supporting or facilitating a violation,” and authorizes state attorney generals to file suit in federal court.
This new law gives local, state and federal prosecutors more legal ground to go after internet sites that host communications offering sex trafficking. The legislation also changes a section in the 1996 Communications Decency Act that was designed to protect websites from being held liable for the speech of others.
If you suspect child abuse or neglect, please consider reporting it to the proper authorities. As responsible adults it is our duty to do all we can to ensure the safety of all children. The Missouri Department of Senior Services has a toll-free phone number in which any person can report suspected child abuse or neglect. Concerned citizens can call 1-800-392-3738. The Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline is a toll-free line which is answered seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
As always, I encourage my constituents to contact me throughout the year with comments, questions or suggestions by calling my office at (573) 751-5713. To find more information about the bills I sponsor, visit www.senate.mo.gov/brown. Thank you for reading this and for your participation in state government.