New Jersey Senate Bill SJR45

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/22
• Refer: 2/3/22

Caption

Directs AG to investigate whether pedophile organizations use the internet to encourage sex offenders to violate State law.

Impact

The resolution underscores the importance of maintaining robust age-of-consent laws as a protective measure against the sexual exploitation of children. Given that statistics indicate that a significant number of children experience sexual victimization, with many incidents going unreported, SJR45 emphasizes that online communication plays an exacerbating role in these crimes. By mandating an investigation, the resolution seeks to reinforce existing laws that protect minors by preventing those who promote such harmful agendas from utilizing the internet to influence potential offenders.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution 45 (SJR45) introduced in New Jersey aims to address the issue of sexual exploitation of minors by directing the Attorney General to investigate pedophile organizations that potentially use the internet to encourage sex offenders to violate state laws. The resolution posits that various online platforms currently serve as venues for such organizations to advocate for the legalization of relationships between adults and minors, and this alarming trend needs urgent scrutiny.

Contention

Supporters of SJR45 assert that the investigation is necessary to ensure that New Jersey remains vigilant against organizations that might normalize or advocate for inappropriate sexual relationships, particularly those that seek to abolish consensual age laws. The concern is that these organizations can manipulate and influence individuals who might exploit minors, thus posing a significant risk to public safety. However, the resolution may provoke discussions regarding the balance between freedom of expression and the protection of vulnerable populations online.