HB 407 -- Public Libraries

Co-Sponsors:  Kelley (47), Bartle, Myers, Hendrickson, Byrd,
Portwood, Phillips

This bill requires public schools and public libraries that
provide public access computers to:

(1)  Equip them with software that prevents access of minors to
materials that are pornographic for minors, as defined in
current law; or

(2)  Purchase Internet service from a provider that provides
filter service to limit minors' access to pornographic materials.

Every school district's governing board must set standards and
rules reflecting community standards for pornographic material
available to minors.  By January 1, 2002, public libraries must
implement policies consistent with community standards and
establish measures restricting minors' access to pornographic
material.  The bill requires the Secretary of State to make
rules to enforce these provisions as they pertain to public
libraries.

Willful neglect or refusal by any school board member, officer,
employee, or library personnel to perform the duties imposed by
the bill is a misdemeanor and punishable by a fine of not more
than $500 or imprisonment in the county jail for up to one
year.  No public school, school board member, officer, employee,
or library personnel who complies with the bill's provisions
will be criminally liable or liable for damages that arise due
to a minor gaining access to pornographic materials through a
public access computer owned or controlled by the public school
or public library.

Missouri House of Representatives
Last Updated September 13, 2001 at 2:02 pm