On the recordFebruary 1, 2016
I thank the gentlemen for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 515, the International Megan's Law to Prevent Demand for Child Sex Trafficking. I would like to thank, like so many have, Congressman Chris Smith for introducing this important legislation to protect innocent children from the evils of sexual predators in the United States and worldwide. As a mother who raised three beautiful children, I can tell you that the constant concern for their safety and protection never goes away. When they were young, I worried if they were safe at the playground down the street, if they were safe at the shopping mall or movie theater. Named after a young girl who was kidnapped, raped, and murdered at just 7 years old by her neighbor, Megan's Law and public knowledge of predators in our communities have been critical tools in protecting our children and easing some of the many fears that parents feel every single day. I cannot fathom the anger and anguish felt by Megan's parents and all parents whose children fall prey to such sick predators. I would do anything to protect my children and all children from sexual predators, and I feel blessed that I and my colleagues are in a position where we can make a difference. We will be able to better identify and scrutinize sex offenders' activity, ensuring that they do not engage in the ghastly practice of sex tourism either in our own neighborhood or any neighborhood around the world. The U.S.…
