Last week’s National Journal reports:
Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., and Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla., that would authorize $175 million in funding over five years to programs educating children on how to safely, securely and ethically use the Internet and mobile technologies. The bill would create a competitive grant program for state and local education agencies and non-profit organizations that would be administered by the Justice Department in collaboration with the departments of Health and Human Services and Education. “The way to meet the challenges and opportunities the Internet presents isn’t to deny our children access to this great resource but to make sure they know how to use it wisely,” Menendez said in a press release.
The Menedez press release giving more details of the legislation is here. Reaction among safety groups has been all positive to date.
iKeepSafe likes it:
As parents and concerned adults, we need to do everything we can to give children and families the tools to navigate the Internet in a way that positively contributes to society. This kind of education can and should start when children begin using technology. This is why we support the SAFE Internet ACT introduced by Sen. Menendez and Rep. Wasserman Schultz.
So does Web Wise Kids:
“Web Wise Kids applauds Senator Menendez and Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz for their leadership in sponsoring this bill and recognizing the critical importance of programs to keep children safe in a cyber world,” said Web Wise Kids CEO Judi Westberg Warren. “Today’s digital world presents a tremendous opportunity for innovation but also significant challenges to keep children safe. Our kids’ futures depend on their understanding and leveraging technology in a smart way. We urge swift passage of this legislation which will help prevent online victimization of millions of children.”
And FOSI:
“FOSI fully supports the SAFE Internet Act and applauds Sen. Menendez and Rep. Wasserman Schultz for their leadership on this issue. FOSI is dedicated to determining best Internet practices and to promoting responsible use online. This bill will help further deploy the much needed educational programs into our schools to teach kids to stay safe, make wise choices online and be better digital citizens.”
Filed under: Internet Safety, Policy
