Pupil Access to Harmful Materials in Library Databases Bill Introduced in Wisconsin

Senator Andre Jacque (R-De Pere) and Representative Paul Tittl (R-Manitowoc) have introduced Senate Bill 10, which requires public libraries and schools to take steps to limit student access to harmful materials in library databases. It would also require schools to notify parents about classroom materials that may be offensive. 

In a memo to legislative colleagues, the bill authors argue that the legislation is needed because "children are being exposed to sexually explicit and psychologically damaging material through library databases via innocent books searches."

The bill requires public libraries and schools to do one of the following:

1. Equip each computer to which a pupil or minor has access with software

that will limit the pupil's or minor's ability to gain access to harmful material.

2.  Purchase Internet connectivity for each computer to which a pupil or minor

has access from an Internet service provider that provides filter services to limit

access to harmful material.

3. Develop and implement by January 1, 2024, a policy that establishes

measures to restrict pupils and minors from gaining computer access to harmful

material.