Senate approves sex predator bill

veterans’ measure and charity bill clear committees

The Senate passed legislation to better monitor on-line activities of sexual predators -- and a bill to help veterans and another bill to assist charity fundraisers cleared Senate committees during the week of September 24^th, according to Senator Bob Regola (R-39).

Cracking down on sexual predators who use the Internet as a way to prey on victims, the Senate approved Senate Bill 490, a measure co-sponsored by Senator Regola that would require convicted offenders to register their email addresses and online screen names with the Pennsylvania State Police and the state Board of Probation and Parole.

Currently, sex offenders are only required to register their residential addresses, employment and/or student information with authorities.

“We need to let predators know that law enforcement will be monitoring their online activities and conversations,” said Sen. Regola.  “It is well documented that sexual predators are using the Internet as a way to contact young people.  This bill will give law enforcement and the capability to better monitor the activities of those offenders.”

In addition to the requirement that offenders register their information, SB 490 also requires those who change their email addresses and/or instant messaging screen name to report those changes to state authorities within 48 hours.  The measure now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration. 

Committee Actions

The Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee approved Senate Bill 915, legislation co-sponsored by Senator Regola which is aimed at improving outreach and assistance to veterans throughout Pennsylvania. 

        The legislation would provide financial assistance to the Veterans Administration accredited service officer programs offered by nationally chartered veteran service organizations including The American Legion, AMVETS, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, and the Disabled American Veterans. 

The program will be coordinated by the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs to enhance the availability of veterans’ assistance throughout the state, to measure performance and program outcomes, and most importantly, ensure the ongoing monitoring and continual improvement of services to Pennsylvania’s veterans’ community.

The Senate Transportation Committee approved Senate Bill 351, also cosponsored by  Senator Regola, that would help local firefighters in their fundraising efforts.  SB 351 would permit charitable organizations, such as firefighters who collect boot donations, to fundraise along local roadways, provided local approval is granted.

SB 351 and SB 915 are now before the full Senate for further consideration.

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Contact:  Nathan Silcox (717) 787-6063