Capitol Report for June 4th, 2008

Increasing Protections For Our Children
The lives of children today are much more dangerous than the carefree days that many of us enjoyed as children. Although we teach our children about the dangers of the world, they still maintain the curiosity and innocence of the world around them. From the playgrounds and parks in our communities to the digital world created by the Internet, our children need a watchful eye to ensure they are protected them from modern day harm.
In the last few years, the Missouri General Assembly has worked hard to combat those individuals who prey on our Missouri’s children. Through the establishment of the sexual offender registry and tougher sentencing guidelines, we have come a long way in protecting our children from the new dangers in the world. However, individuals who work to exploit the law and take advantage of our children have not stopped. Unfortunately, many of these individuals who have committed crimes against children in other states have exploited legal loopholes to avoid registration and buffer zones.
This year, as the legislature again took steps to protect Missouri’s children. Among the bills passed was SB 818, also known as "Megan's Law", which made online stalking and harassment a criminal offense while forcing all individuals on the sex offender registry to list any and all online identities they use. While those provisions seek to protect our children in the digital world, SB 714 closed the loopholes that were keeping offenders who had committed sexual registry crimes in other states from having to register in Missouri. As a result, every sexual offender in Missouri will now be forced to register regardless of where they committed their crime. In addition, SB 714 increased penalties for individuals who promote child pornography and prohibits sex offenders from participating in Halloween activities.
As long as individuals exist who want to harm innocent children, we must be diligent in our pursuit to stop them. As your Senator, I am committed to ensuring that law enforcement and our judicial system have the tools necessary to find these criminals, prosecute them, and lock them up. I am hopeful that one day all Missouri children will once again be able to fully experience, without worry, the excitements and adventures that make childhood so much fun.
As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns. The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is brad.lager@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 429, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.