Kentucky lawmakers have advanced a bill to add a $10 fee in criminal court costs to bolster efforts to combat child pornography. The measure cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee Monday and heads to the Senate.
The bill would add the $10 fee to felony and misdemeanor criminal cases, with the money used to bolster the Kentucky State Police's undermanned Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Officials estimate the fee could raise about $1.6 million yearly.
State police Maj. John Bradley says investigators compiled 480 cases for prosecution since 2010, but calls that "the tip of the iceberg." He says police would use extra money to add investigators.
The Senate panel amended the bill, meaning it would go back to the House if it passes the Senate.