Oklahoma Enacts Safe Net Law to Protect Children from Online Predators

Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry today signed "Safe Net" legislation (Senate Bill 1479) that creates an Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit to specifically investigate cases of online child predators and child pornographers. In addition, the measure strengthens penalties against predators who solicit minors online.

The legislation was authored by state Sen. Jim Wilson (D-Tahlequah) and Rep. Purcy Walker (D-Elk City).

The governor said it is crucial that Oklahoma act now, as the Internet continues to revolutionize the way people seek information and communicate.

"The Internet is too incredible a resource for education and information to let it be compromised by those who seek to harm our children," said Henry in a release.

"Sexual predators and pornographers have discovered that cyberspace affords them a cloak of anonymity. 'Safe Net' will help give our law enforcement the tools they need to root out that criminal element."

Henry noted that it is critical for legislators to adequately fund Safe Net. The governor's proposed executive budget includes $790,000 to establish the ICAC unit.