Amid growing concerns with sex offenders, particularly pedophiles, New Jersey has become one of the first states to pass legislation that will prohibit some convicted sex offenders from using the Internet. The bill applies to anyone who used a computer to help commit a sex crime and to paroled sex offenders under lifetime supervision.

Under the new law, convicted sex offenders will have to let the state Parole Board know about their computer use and submit to periodic, unannounced examinations of their machines. In addition, the state can force sex offenders to install hardware or software monitoring systems on their computers. Those caught using the internet can expect 18 months in jail and a $10,000 fine. Use of a computer for strict employment or job search is permitted though.