“Sexual predators threaten kids all over the country and we must use every available means to stop them,” said Rehberg, a member of the House Appropriations Committee. “Increased access to the internet in homes and schools has made it difficult for parents to always know who their child is talking to online.  It’s essential we create new ways of educating our kids about online predators as well as properly monitor these criminals once they’ve been caught.  Today’s action will do just that.”

            The Keeping the Internet Devoid of Sexual Predators (KIDS) Act of 2007 would require the Department of Justice to collect the e-mail addresses and instant message profiles of registered sex offenders and to make that information available to social networking sites like My Space and Facebook.  The legislation would also make it a crime for anyone over the age of 18 to misrepresent their age intending to use the Internet to engage in criminal sexual conduct with a minor. 

            Another bill would direct the Attorney General to provide grants for the education of parents, children, educators, and communities regarding the recognition and prevention of potential Internet dangers.

            “New developments in internet technology have unfortunately created new avenues for sexual predators to target our kids,” said Rehberg.  “This legislation will give families and law enforcement new tools to protect children and will help put sexual predators in jail where they belong.”

There are currently 1,597 sex offenders registered in Montana.