Senator Jake Hoffman (R-AZ) is criticizing Democrats who voted against his proposal to limit minors' access to sexually explicit library materials, especially after one activist made a shocking comparison during testimony.
Senator Hoffman has sponsored Senate Bill 1435, which would make it illegal for public library workers to help children access materials the state defines as sexually explicit. The legislation has since sparked heated debate about censorship, parental rights, and what belongs in libraries.
Things got especially tense during a recent committee hearing when an activist testified against the measure.
According to Hoffman, the activist mentioned convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in opposition to the bill, saying they had read mature books in school and that Epstein also read similar material, suggesting schools should decide what's appropriate without government interference. However, the comment did not go well with lawmakers.
Controversial Testament
"To invoke Jeffrey Epstein while arguing against protections for children is beyond disturbing—it is morally monstrous," Hoffman said in a statement. "Epstein was a convicted predator who exploited minors. There is no universe in which his name should be raised as part of an argument to weaken safeguards for kids."
SB 1435 would make it a felony for librarians or contractors to refer minors to or help them access sexually explicit content. The crime could carry a sentence of up to two and a half years in prison.
This isn't Hoffman's first attempt at such legislation. For four straight years, Republican lawmakers have tried to expand a 2022 law that already bans school employees from sharing this type of material with students under 18.
Recent Reports
AzCentral reported that previous versions have passed Arizona's Republican-controlled legislature but were vetoed by Governor Katie Hobbs (D-AZ), who called them book-banning attempts disguised as child protection.
"Republicans will stand firmly on the side of protecting children—every single time," Hoffman affirmed.
The bill's future may depend on next year's gubernatorial election. Gubernatorial candidate Andy Biggs (R-AZ) has already told reporters he'd sign similar legislation if elected, calling it "common sense."
