GOP platform draft proclaims porn a 'menace' and 'public health crisis'

As Republicans chipped away at their draft party platform on Monday, one issue sparked little debate: declaring internet pornography a "public health crisis."

Mary Frances Forrester, a delegate from North Carolina, proposed the amendment during a subcommittee meeting. The provision states that the internet "must not become a safe haven for predators," CNN reports, and the "harmful effects" of pornography, "especially on children," have created a "public health crisis that is destroying the life of millions." The GOP is encouraging states to "continue to fight this public menace and pledge our commitment to children's safety and well-being. We applaud the social networking sites that bar sex offenders from participation. We urge energetic prosecution of child pornography which [is] closely linked to human trafficking."

Platform deliberations will continue through Tuesday, with the full draft being sent to the floor of the convention next week. In addition to porn, delegates debated over medical marijuana, abortion, international trade, and endangered species.

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