On April 5, the House Judiciary Committee approved several bills, including H.R. 1862, the Global Child Protection Act, and H.R. 1842, the Strengthening Children’s Safety Act.
Global Child Protection Act
The measure, sponsored by Rep. Martha Roby (R-AL), would define illicit sexual conduct to include sexual contact committed against children while abroad, often referred to as “sex tourism.” In addition, the bill would ensure that sexual offenses against children under age 12 are treated the same as those committed against older children.
The committee approved the bill by voice vote.
Strengthening Children’s Safety Act
Sponsored by Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-TX), the bill would include state crimes of violence when determining enhanced penalties when sex offenders fail to register or update their information. Currently only sex offenders who commit federal crimes of violence are subject to enhanced penalties.
In addition, the bill would include sex offenses in violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice in the determination of enhanced penalties. Such crimes currently are not included.
The committee approved the bill by voice vote.
