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STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS26860
The purpose of this legislation is to amend Chapter 27, Section 41 of Title 33 Idaho Code. The change
will update the current requirement that public libraries filter access to minors of obscene and pornographic
material through their internet. Current law did not anticipate the use of personal laptop computers, tablets
and smart phones gaining access through the publicly provided wireless access to the library's internet.
The bill adds the language "publicly accessible wireless internet access or" and like terminology to several
references of "publicly accessible computers". This bill simply confirms that Idaho's public libraries shall
assure that their wireless (Wi-Fi) is filtered. Public Libraries are currently required to filter obscene and
pornographic material from minors. These amendments clarify that Wi-Fi access of these materials must
also be filtered from minors. Each library board of trustees would also need to update their policies to include
this amendment.
FISCAL NOTE
The Commission on Libraries does not require reports on the compliance with Chapter 27, Section 41 of
Title 33 Idaho Code. Therefore, we estimate that as many as 25-35 small rural libraries may need to install
filters for their Wi-Fi. Technical experts have indicated that a modem/firewall for filtration of obscene
and pornographic materials would cost no more than $2,500, and many systems could filter through cloud
services for much less. Further research of the technology indicates that the addition of wireless should
have minimal financial impact, as most firewalls and routers already have the technology to assure minors
are unable to gain access to the prohibited material.
Contact:
Representative Lance W. Clow
(208) 332-1000
Senator Dean M. Mortimer
(208) 332-1000
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note H0194


Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 33-2741
Engrossment 1: 33-2741