Link: Georgia General Assembly
Summary: Repeals the exemption of libraries and librarians (Code section 16-12-103) from distributing what is called “Harmful Materials” to Minors
Stance: Oppose
Details:
Currently state law exempts public and school or university libraries from the ban on distributing obscene media to people under 18. Thus, current language credits the professionalism of librarians to monitor the content on their shelves and note the reading materials of minors using their libraries. If SB 74 passes, librarians will no longer be protected from false allegations and could be forced to defend themselves in court. Under SB 74 they could face 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $5,000 if material later determined to be “obscene” is distributed. If SB 74 becomes law, it would be up to librarians to demonstrate that they “made a good faith attempt” to block harmful materials from minors. As was said by a witness in a recent hearing on the bill “Georgia libraries do not purchase obscene materials.” However, the true consequence of SB 74 will be librarians not making decisions based on the balance of common sense and what young people want to read. In its place will be a fear of legal consequence in making a choice that one person disagrees with.
Action:
Contact members of the House Rules Committee: