House Bill 1132 Passes Third Reading in the House

GOP Measure Protects Children from Predators Using New Types of Technology

In a victory to children throughout Colorado, House Bill 1132 passed Third Reading today.

The bill, sponsored by State Reps. Carole Murray, R-Castle Rock, and Kevin Priola, R-Henderson, ensures all forms of communication, including text messages and instant messages, are admissible as evidence in sexual exploitation, stalking and harassment cases.

“Current law hasn’t kept pace with new technology,” said Murray. “HB 1132 would bring Colorado law into the twenty-first century, by updating it to include all forms of communication that occur through computer and phone networks.”

According to Priola, predators are currently taking advantage of a loophole that allows them to use the internet and cell phones to prey on children:

“The danger to our children is the same whether a predator is using a chat room, instant messaging, or text messaging. Law enforcement officials need this bill to give them the necessary tools to prosecute these heinous crimes against innocent children in Colorado.”

HB 1132 will now be considered in the State Senate.