STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS29221 / S1261
The proposed legislation seeks to fulfill the Government’s compelling interest in protecting children from
exposure to harmful material online while not overburdening Free Speech. This is accomplished by requiring
manufacturers of Internet capable devices to install and activate technology that enables parents to make filtering
decisions for their children. This legislation recognizes the serious harm that comes to children from online
pornography exposure and allows the government to encourage the use of filters and empower parents to
determine what Internet material is appropriate for their children to access. Ashcorft v. ACLU, 542 U.S.
656, 670 (2004). Without this legislation it is not possible for parents to effectively protect their children from
the massive amounts of harmful material inundating them online. This is because both mobile and computer
devices are capable of connecting to the Internet in various ways, each with their own set of filtering limitations.
By placing Internet filtering requirements at the manufacturer level, the devices themselves will be capable of
filtering harmful content as they move in and out of different Internet networks.
FISCAL NOTE
This legislation will have no fiscal impact on the State of Idaho. If there is any miniscule cost involved, it may
be passed on to the consumer.
Contact:
Senator Kevin Cook
(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 Bill SOP/FN INTRODUCED: 02/02/2022, 9:46 AM