Committee hears sex offender’s social media bill

FRANKFORT – A bill relating to sex offender’s use of social media was approved today
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.