Michigan takes a giant leap forward in its efforts to keep an eye on some of its worst sex offenders. It has been the latest in a short line of states to buy high tech GPS ankle bracelets.

The ankle bracelets would allow prison officials to track sex offenders, wherever they may be and anywhere they may end up. Authorities feel this is a step towards a safer state.

The GPS model tracks paroled sex offenders, especially those who victimized children. The devices record where the sex offender has gone and the information can be relayed through a telephone line. And the best part is, the people of the state of Michigan don't have to expect a huge raise in their taxes: the offender will have to pay $15 a day for the monitoring.

If approved, a 3-year contract with a Tampa Bay based company will provide slightly more than 1,000 units to the state.

It's about time.