Statement in Congressional Record by Rep. Gene Green (D-TX). Re: Introduction of HR 1910, E-Mail User Protection Act. Date: May 24, 1999. Source: Congressional Record, May 24, 1999, Page E1069.

HON. GENE GREEN
in the House of Representatives
MONDAY, MAY 24, 1999

Mr. GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the internet is a communications medium that has significantly impacted our day-to-day lives. With the click of a button you can do just about anything. You can write to your family and friends. You can purchase clothes and groceries. You can even listen to music and watch videos. There is no doubt that the internet has become one of our civilizations most important innovations.

Unfortunately with these advancements come problems. One of the largest problems to face the internet is unsolicited bulk e-mail or spam. Today, I am introducing the E-Mail User Protection Act. Spam is a problem. It takes both time and money to wade through and delete these unsolicited messages. It is a problem which everyone agrees needs to be addressed immediately. This legislation attacks the problem by making the tools used fraudulently by spammers.

First, my legislation makes it illegal to falsify any identifying information such as e-mail addresses or routing information. Second, this bill makes it illegal for a spammer to misappropriate or take over an unsuspecting person's e-mail account to spam others by subjecting the spammer to either a stiff financial penalty and/or possible jail time. Third, the legislation also requires spammers, upon the request of an individual, to remove them from their spam. Fourth, my bill makes it illegal to create, use, or distribute software that is primarily designed to falsify e-mail identifying information. Fifth, any violations of these provisions incurs a fine of either $50 per violating message or up to $10,000 a day the violation continues.

This is an excellent solution to the spam problem. The E-Mail User Protection Act of 1999 will start to weed out fraudulent spam and eliminate any hassle to internet users. By this, we will help to continue the growth, prosperity, and innovation of the internet.