Deleting Online Predators Act (DOPA)
Like many other librarians, I'm very concerned about DOPA. Here's a summary of the bill, from the ALA Web site:
"DOPA is short for the Deleting Online Predators Act, the name given to H.R. 5319, which requires schools and libraries to block access to a broad selection of web content including 'commercial Web sites that let users create Web pages or profiles or offer communication with other users via forums, chat rooms, e-mail or instant messaging.' The bill blocks users from accessing sites like MySpace from schools or libraries, as well as access to a wide array of other content and technologies such as instant messaging, online email, wikis, and blogs."
DOPA passed in the House of Representatives on July 26, much to my dismay. It now goes to the Senate. I've already contacted my senators to let them know that I oppose DOPA, and also signed an online petition. While I understand the concern about the safety of children and teens, I think it would be far simpler more effective to teach them (and their parents) how to go online safely and to avoid giving out personal information. Simply prohibiting certain Web sites -- and many, many sites fall under the definition above -- is ridiculous.
Beth Yoke, Executive Director of YALSA (Young Adult Services Association), testified against the bill -- you can read her statement here.
If you'd like to take a stand, sign this petition and contact your senators. For more information, check this wiki.
"DOPA is short for the Deleting Online Predators Act, the name given to H.R. 5319, which requires schools and libraries to block access to a broad selection of web content including 'commercial Web sites that let users create Web pages or profiles or offer communication with other users via forums, chat rooms, e-mail or instant messaging.' The bill blocks users from accessing sites like MySpace from schools or libraries, as well as access to a wide array of other content and technologies such as instant messaging, online email, wikis, and blogs."
DOPA passed in the House of Representatives on July 26, much to my dismay. It now goes to the Senate. I've already contacted my senators to let them know that I oppose DOPA, and also signed an online petition. While I understand the concern about the safety of children and teens, I think it would be far simpler more effective to teach them (and their parents) how to go online safely and to avoid giving out personal information. Simply prohibiting certain Web sites -- and many, many sites fall under the definition above -- is ridiculous.
Beth Yoke, Executive Director of YALSA (Young Adult Services Association), testified against the bill -- you can read her statement here.
If you'd like to take a stand, sign this petition and contact your senators. For more information, check this wiki.