Some Mo. senators concerned about sex-abuse bill
File Photo of the Missouri House of Representatives
Photographer: NBC Action News reporter Chris Hernandez
Copyright 2010 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Posted: 02/21/2012
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By: Associated Press
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Some Missouri senators are raising concerns that the state may be going too far with legislation prompted by the child sex abuse scandal at Penn State University.
At least four senators voiced concern Monday as the Senate debated legislation requiring anyone 18 or older who witnesses a child being sexually abused to report it to law enforcement or the state Family Services Division. Those who don't could face misdemeanor charges punishable by up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Republican Sen. Eric Schmitt of St. Louis County says his bill was prompted by reports that an employee at Penn State told his boss about witnessing sexual abuse but did not tell police.
Some senators contend Schmitt's bill could have unintended consequences for families.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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