Reauthorizing PROTECT Our Children Act

Reauthorizing the PROTECT Our Children Act of 2008

The following is a reauthorization bill for the PROTECT Our Children Act of 2008.

Introduction

This bill aims to reauthorize and update the PROTECT Our Children Act of 2008, which was originally passed in 2008. The act focuses on preventing child abuse and exploitation through various means, including training programs for law enforcement officials, social workers, and healthcare providers.

Key Provisions

Reauthorization of the ICAC Program: This provision reauthorizes the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) program, which provides funding and resources to support state and local law enforcement efforts in investigating and prosecuting internet-facilitated child sexual exploitation.
Enhanced Training and Technical Assistance: This provision enhances training and technical assistance for members of the ICAC Task Force Program, including training on emerging technologies and methods used by perpetrators to exploit children.
Research and Development: This provision authorizes research and development of new tools and technologies to support the ICAC program, such as digital forensics software and online training platforms.

Authorization of Appropriations

The following appropriations are authorized for fiscal years 2026, 2027, and 2028:

$70,000,000 for fiscal year 2026
$80,000,000 for fiscal year 2027
$90,000,000 for fiscal year 2028

Additional Provisions

The following provisions are also included in the bill:

Agricultural Forensic Science Program: This provision authorizes additional funding for the Agricultural Forensic Science Program, which provides training and technical assistance to law enforcement officials in agricultural-related crimes.
Reporting Requirements of Providers: This provision requires providers of certain services, including healthcare providers and social workers, to submit reports on their activities related to child protection and exploitation.

Direct Link:

For more information on this bill, please visit: https://www.govinfo.gov/app/details/BILLS-119s539rs

“The PROTECT Our Children Act of 2008 is a critical tool in the fight against child abuse and exploitation. This reauthorization bill will provide essential funding and resources to support state and local law enforcement efforts in investigating and prosecuting internet-facilitated child sexual exploitation.” – [Your Name]