Orrin Hatch: “I will take a moment to address some of the significant components of this measure. First, the PROTECT Act of 2003…”

“I will take a moment to address some of the significant components of this measure. First, the PROTECT Act of 2003, which I and Senator Leahy introduced following the Supreme Court's decision in Ashcroft v. Free Speech Coalition, has been my top legislative priority since last year. Congress has long recognized that child pornography produces three distinct, disturbing, and lasting harms to our children. First, child pornography whets the appetites of pedophiles and prompts them to act out their perverse sexual fantasies on real children. Second, it is a tool used by pedophiles to break down the inhibitions of children. Third, child pornography creates an immeasurable and indelible harm on the children who are abused to manufacture it. It goes without saying that we have a compelling interest in protecting our children from harm. The PROTECT Act strikes a necessary balance between this goal and the first amendment. The PROTECT Act has been carefully drafted to avoid constitutional concerns. The end result of all of our hard work is a bill of which we can be proud, one that is tough on pedophiles and child pornographers in a measured and constitutional way. The legislation also addresses AMBER alert, America's Missing Broadcast Emergency Response. The bill will extend the AMBER alert system across our Nation.”