However, mandatory filtering may become law despite the commission's recommendations. House Republicans have tacked an ammendment onto the Department of Education's annual spending bill that would require schools and libraries to use filters if they buy technology with certain federal subsidies. A vote on the bill is expected to take place early next week. During Tuesday night's presidential debate, Republican candidate George W. Bush endorsed the use of Net filters. With the presidential election less than three weeks away, the stance could help Bush woo undecided voters at the polls.
Research suggests that the American public supports the use of software to police the Net.
The amendment is opposed by an unusual assortment of groups including the American Civil Liberties Union, a high-tech trade association in Washington, and the Christian Coalition. If the amendment passes, it will likely end up in court, says the EFF's Pierce. TechTV Inc. All rights reserved. We respect your privacy .