Louisiana Senate Bill SR175

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/1/18
• Passed: 5/1/18

Caption

Requests the Board of Regents and each postsecondary education management board to install internet filters to block content which is obscene, pornographic, or sexually harassing and which creates a hostile education or work environment.

Impact

If adopted, SR175 would direct educational institutions to adopt proactive measures to prevent access to inappropriate content online. Such regulations could lead to broader implications for digital access and freedom within educational settings, as institutions would need to navigate balancing security and censorship while ensuring that proper resources remain accessible for educational and scientific inquiry. The resolution addresses a significant concern regarding the prevalence of pornography and its effects on educational environments, particularly regarding the need for a safe space for all individuals involved.

Summary

Senate Resolution 175, proposed by Senator Mizell, urges the Louisiana Board of Regents and public postsecondary education management boards to implement internet filters on all computers across public postsecondary institutions. The resolution emphasizes the need to block access to obscene, pornographic, and sexually harassing content, which the proponents argue contributes to a hostile educational and workplace environment. This move is framed as a way to maintain a respectful atmosphere conducive to learning and professional engagement among students and staff alike.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding this resolution appears to vary among stakeholders. Proponents believe that it is a necessary step to safeguard the integrity of educational spaces and to protect students and staff from exposure to harmful content. On the other hand, critics may argue that such filtering could hinder access to legitimate information and that it raises concerns over potential overreach in controlling internet access in educational settings. Thus, the resolution seems to strike at the heart of ongoing debates between maintaining a respectful environment and protecting academic freedom.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SR175 may revolve around the mechanisms of enforcement and the criteria for content deemed inappropriate. While instilling filters can be seen as a protective measure against harassment and obscenity, it also invites challenges related to the definitions of 'obscene' and 'harassing' content, as well as the implications these filters could have on academic research and educational resources. Questions may arise regarding who has the authority to determine internet access policies, and whether this might create barriers for educators and researchers who require unrestricted access for legitimate purposes.