Every unit is operated by a chartering organization and their web sites are
the private property of the individuals who operate them. The BSA really can't
enforce rules/regulations in that area without coming into conflict with first
amendment rights.
However, we can provide advice to help units avoid some potential problems.
Using careful judgment should assure a risk-free publishable site.
For troops and packs, it's probably important to remember the Children's
Online Privacy Protection Act of 1999 - a federal law that makes it illegal to
gather or publish "personal" information about children under age 13 over the
Internet without prior written consent from a parent or legal guardian.
Guidance for Unit Web Sites
The Boy Scouts of America provides the following advice for individuals who use
privately owned web sites and e-mail accounts to communicate information about
Scouting.
Decorum
Scouters should exercise propriety and good taste online. Material that will be
posted to a unit site or sent from a unit e-mail account should be reviewed by
at least three adult members of the unit committee.
Access
The ability to place material on the site or send messages from the account
should be controlled by an adult who is responsible to the committee.
Youth Protection
Names, images, and especially contact information pertaining to youth members
should never be gathered or published over the Internet.
Copyright
Do not "borrow" (without permission) content for use in unit web sites. Written
permission should always be obtained. Even when material is declared to be
"free" or "public domain;" it might not be.
