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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Eye On Boise

Bill advances to require Internet filtering at Idaho libraries

Here's a news item from the Associated Press:  BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Legislation to require Idaho's public libraries to block offensive content on computers, such as pornography, is moving through the state Legislature. The House Education Committee passed the measure Wednesday. It now goes to the full House. Rep. Mack Shirley, R-Rexburg, says his bill would require public libraries to install computer software to filter indecent material. A previous version of the bill would have withheld public funding for libraries that don't comply, but that provision was dropped amid concerns over how the state would enforce it. Supporters say the measure will keep adults from using library computers to view inappropriate content while also protecting children. But opponents fear the legislation would require libraries to buy expensive software that is designed to filter offensive content but may not always be successful.



Betsy Z. Russell
Betsy Z. Russell joined The Spokesman-Review in 1991. She currently is a reporter in the Boise Bureau covering Idaho state government and politics, and other news from Idaho's state capital.

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