From the PROTECTnewswire:
Victory in Kentucky!
Last night, after Representative John Tilley's legislation to fund Kentucky's ICAC Task Force had already worked its way through the State Senate, it came back to the House where it received unanimous support. After weeks of debate, wrangling over where funding will come from, including a visit from Alicia Kozakiewicz herself, this legislation is finally headed to Governor Steve Beshear's desk for his signature. This bill was incredibly critical in our efforts to rescue and protect Kentucky's children. Nationwide, law enforcement knows where hundreds of thousands of criminals are trafficking in images and video of children being raped and abused. Over half of these predators are also hands-on offenders, with local child victims. Yet, fewer than two percent of these known leads are being investigated, due to lack of resources. Our victory in Kentucky, supported by our generous donors, ensures more arrests and child rescues, year after year. PROTECT gives great thanks to those that helped shepherd this bill through the Kentucky legislature. We know that, without their leadership, Kentucky couldn't have joined other states in the battle to combat child exploitation: Rep. John Tilley Sen. Whitney Westerfield House Speaker Greg Stumbo Senate President Steven Stivers Majority Caucus Leader Sannie Overly Senate Majority Leader Senate Damon Thayer Rep. Jody Richards Kentucky State Police Commissioner Rodney Brewer Members of the Kentucky Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Rep. Tilley's bill increases money flowing into the Kentucky State Police's Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The additional money would come from a $10 court fee on all felonies and misdemeanors. The vote was unanimous, but behind the scenes, it's always a fight to get PROTECT bills the vote they deserve. Special thanks go to our Kentucky champions, Kiki Courtelis and Amy Towles. As always, we appreciate your support. Without your help, PROTECT wouldn't be able to do this kind of work across the country and in Washington, D.C. ~ The Staff and Volunteers at PROTECT
