Bill > HB620

This bill amends Louisiana law to prohibit registered sex offenders from intentionally using social networking websites, defining "social networking website" as an internet site primarily for social interaction that allows users to create profiles and communicate with others, while excluding sites solely for photo sharing, email, instant messaging, commercial transactions, or news dissemination. The bill clarifies that "use" includes creating a profile or contacting other users, and it applies to offenders convicted of specific sex offenses involving minors or equivalent offenses under other jurisdictions, unless certain due process safeguards were not met. Penalties for unlawful use include fines and imprisonment, with increased penalties for subsequent convictions. Additionally, the bill updates the written notification process for sex offenders to include information about the prohibition on using social networking websites, ensuring they are aware of this new restriction as part of their registration requirements.