Senator Durbin discusses child safety online at stop in Springfield

Posted on August 12, 2024
Sen. Durbin (D-IL). (Photo courtesy: Durbin/X)

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – When the big tech companies enable online child abuse, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) wants to hit them in the pocketbook.

“Each time an image of abuse is shared, the victim is exploited all over again. For some victims the abuse weighs on them so tremendously that they take their own lives. Think about that,” said Durbin during a visit to the Sangamon County Child Advocacy Center in Springfield Monday.

Kids find themselves in online situations so dire, they cannot imagine a way out. Kids are dying, and Congress must act.”

Durbin’s bill, which would expose such companies to civil liability, has passed the Senate and awaits a vote in the House.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected].

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