This bill, named after the 13 year old Missouri girl who committed suicide after being harassed on the social networking site MySpace.com, is sponsored by Rep. Linda Sánchez [D, CA-39]. The intent of the bill is to make online harassment, known as cyberbullying, punishable under Chapter 41 of title 18 of the United States Code. The section dealing with threats and harassment.

Proponents of the bill say it will protect children and teens while online, where anonymity makes harassment easier.

Opponents contend that the bill would threaten free speech online and that sufficient criminal and civil penalties already exist for such behavior.

Read the full text of the bill behind the cut.

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