Hearing Held on Bill Proposed by Rep. Callahan

Hartford– The legislature’s Judiciary Committee raised a bill based on a bipartisan proposal introduced by Rep. Patrick Callahan (R-108) with Rep. Mary Welander (D-114th). A public hearing was held March 8.

This proposal, H.B. 6737 An Act Establishing the Crime of Harmful Communication With a Minor, would ensure that the predators who are purposely targeting children with harmful intent can now be brought to justice with the creation of a new Class A misdemeanor.

“Last year, I was part of a bipartisan group of legislators to craft a bill protecting our kids from online abuse and exploitation. While the bill passed the House with unanimous support, it did not receive a vote in the Senate. I am hopeful that it will garner the same support in the House this year, gets a vote in the Senate and signed by the Governor before the end of Session,” said Callahan.

The proposal also seeks to protect students who may fall victim to having personal photos disseminated to third parties.

“During the pandemic kids increased screen time and spending time online, opening them up harmful communications. I have proposed a bill with a goal of preventing adults from having harmful communication with online, and engaging them in risky communication,” added Callahan.