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HB 45

Courts; special grand jury impaneling procedures; revise provisions

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Viola Davis and 2 co-sponsors

HB 45 enhances public safety by restricting sexual offenders from living or working within 1,000 feet of child-centric areas and requiring background checks for related jobs.

House Second Readers
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 45

Summary of HB 45: Sexual Offenders and Sexual Predators

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HB 45
- Title: Sexual Offenders and Sexual Predators
- Status: Now in Judiciary Committee
- Introduced: September 25, 2025
- Classification: Bill
- Subject: Criminal procedure and corrections

Purpose and Intent

HB 45 aims to revise existing laws regarding residency restrictions and employment screening for individuals convicted of certain sexual offenses. The bill seeks to enhance public safety by imposing stricter regulations on where these individuals can live and work, particularly in proximity to areas frequented by children.

Key Provisions

Residency Restrictions

  • New Restrictions: Individuals convicted of specified sexual offenses involving victims under 16 years of age will be prohibited from residing within 1,000 feet of:
    • Public swimming pools
    • Public bathing places
    • Schools
    • Child care facilities
    • Parks
    • Playgrounds
  • Effective Date: These restrictions apply to offenses committed on or after July 1, 2026.
  • Existing Residents: Individuals already residing in compliant locations will not be forced to relocate if a restricted area is established nearby after their residence meets the requirements.

Employment Screening

  • Mandatory Background Checks: State agencies and governmental subdivisions must conduct background checks against the registration information of sexual predators and offenders before hiring individuals for positions at:
    • Parks
    • Playgrounds
    • Public swimming pools
    • Child care facilities
  • Exceptions: This requirement does not apply to positions that already require a state and national criminal history background check.

Conditional Release and Probation

  • Supervision Conditions: Individuals on probation or conditional release for specified sexual offenses will also face restrictions similar to residency requirements, including:
    • Prohibition from living or working within 1,000 feet of public swimming pools or bathing places.
    • Requirement for prior approval to visit such locations.

Impact

Affected Individuals

  • The bill primarily affects individuals convicted of sexual offenses involving minors, particularly those with convictions occurring on or after July 1, 2026.
  • It also impacts state agencies and organizations that employ individuals in positions involving children.

Fiscal Considerations

  • The bill may have an indeterminate positive impact on prison and jail bed usage, potentially reducing the number of offenders in correctional facilities due to stricter residency and employment regulations.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: The bill is currently in the Judiciary Committee following its passage through the Criminal Justice Subcommittee.
  • Timeline: The effective date for the majority of the provisions is set for July 1, 2026.

Conclusion

HB 45 represents a significant shift in the legislative approach to managing sexual offenders and predators, particularly concerning their proximity to children and employment opportunities. By instituting stricter residency and employment regulations, the bill aims to enhance community safety and protect vulnerable populations.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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