River Region Times

Rep. Barry Moore and Rep. Sylvia Garcia have introduced the Strengthening Transparency and Obligations to Protect Children Suffering from Abuse and Mistreatment (STOP CSAM) Act. The legislation aims to expand protections for child victims and witnesses in federal court proceedings, facilitating restitution for victims of child exploitation, human trafficking, sexual assault, and violent crimes.

"Unfortunately, emerging technologies have only made it easier for criminals to obtain child sexual abuse material,” said Rep. Moore. "American victims have increased 422 percent over a 15-year period. I thank Rep. Garcia for joining me on this bipartisan legislation that strengthens reporting requirements to hold big tech accountable when they fail to protect our children and help victims get the justice they deserve."

Rep. Garcia emphasized the importance of protecting children online, stating, “There is no greater responsibility than keeping our children safe. The presence of the internet has made it increasingly easy for these offenders to run rampant. The STOP CSAM Act will hold tech companies accountable by creating stronger protection for our children. It’s time for Congress to act and protect our children from online predators.”

The STOP CSAM Act has gained endorsements from various organizations including the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the National Children’s Alliance, ECPAT-USA, Raven, Child Rescue Coalition, the National District Attorney’s Association, the National Fraternal Order of Police, the Major Cities Chiefs Association, the National Criminal Justice Training Center, Street Grace, and the Youth Power Project.