Posted November 17, 2003.
Ohio Measure Would Mandate Library Filters for State Funding
A bill in the Ohio Senate would require public libraries to install Internet filters or lose state funding. The measure, introduced November 7 by Sen. Steve Austria (R-Beavercreek), would also forbid patrons under age 18 from borrowing R-rated videos. A third provision makes it a crime to sell juveniles prepaid cards that allow access to Internet porn sites.
A 1997 state law requires library boards to develop policies to limit children’s Internet access to obscene materials, but it doesn’t require the use of blocking software.
The Ohio Library Council says its legal counsel is reviewing the bill, and a formal response will be issued after its legislative analysis is complete.
Posted November 17, 2003.