For Immediate Release: May 18, 2006

"Safe Net Act" Sent to Governor

A measure to protect Oklahoma's children from Internet predators is on its way to the Governor's desk after receiving final approval from the State Senate Wednesday. Senate Bill 1479 is authored by Senator Jim Wilson, D-Tahlequah, and Rep. Purcy Walker, D-Elk City.

"The Safe Net Act will give our law enforcement officials the necessary tools to address the ever-increasing problem of individuals preying on our youth via the Internet," said Wilson. "More and more predators are finding their victims this way. In fact, one in five children who use the Internet comes into contact with a sexual predator and those kids need all the protection we can give them."

The new law will make it illegal for an individual to facilitate, encourage, offer or solicit sexual conduct with a minor through communications using a wide range of technologies including the Internet, computers, telephones, cellular phones, video or audio equipment, or any other kind of electronic device. Online sex offenders will be charged with a felony and up to five years in prison with each communication constituting a separate offense.

An Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit will be created under the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to investigate Internet crimes committed against children, including, but not limited to, offenses related to child pornography or solicitation of minors for pornography and prostitution.

"The Act focuses not only on the punishment of these types of crimes, but the prevention of them by promoting safe Internet use among children and their parents through various media and print campaigns as well as offering educational programs to schools and communities across the state," said Wilson. "By educating our citizens about the dangers of Internet predators, we can help prevent future tragedies and keep our children safe."

For more information, contact:
Senator Wilson's Office: (405) 521-5574