Establishes a moratorium on the placement of registered sex offenders by the office for people with developmental disabilities in residential placements for individuals with developmental disabilities

2025 Regular Session Introduced by William Colton and 4 co-sponsors

Bill A 1136 imposes a moratorium on placing registered sex offenders in residential facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities, enhancing their safety.

REFERRED TO MENTAL HEALTH

Bill Overview

Bill Number: A 1136

Title: Establishes a moratorium on the placement of registered sex offenders by the office for people with developmental disabilities in residential placements for individuals with developmental disabilities

Status: Referred to Mental Health

Introduced: January 09, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill A 1136 is to impose a temporary moratorium on the placement of registered sex offenders into residential facilities that serve individuals with developmental disabilities. This legislation aims to protect vulnerable populations by preventing potential risks associated with housing registered sex offenders in close proximity to individuals with developmental disabilities.

Key Provisions

Moratorium Implementation: The bill establishes a moratorium, which means that the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) will be prohibited from placing registered sex offenders in residential settings designated for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Duration of Moratorium: The specific duration of the moratorium is not detailed in the provided information, but it is typically intended to be a temporary measure while further assessments and policies are developed.

Assessment and Review: The bill may include provisions for reviewing the implications of such placements and determining appropriate policies to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents in these facilities.

Affected Parties

Individuals with Developmental Disabilities: The primary group affected by this bill are individuals with developmental disabilities who reside in or are seeking placement in residential facilities. The moratorium aims to enhance their safety and security.

Registered Sex Offenders: This bill directly impacts registered sex offenders by restricting their placement options within residential settings for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD): The OPWDD will need to adjust its policies and practices in light of this moratorium, potentially affecting its operational procedures and resource allocation.

Procedural Aspects

Legislative Action: As of January 09, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Mental Health committee for further consideration. This is a standard procedural step in the legislative process, where the committee will review the bill, hold discussions, and potentially make recommendations for amendments or approval.

Related Bills: Bill A 1136 is related to several prior-session bills (A 11393, A 1422, A 2487, A 886), which may provide context or background regarding previous legislative efforts related to the placement of registered sex offenders and the protection of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Conclusion

Bill A 1136 seeks to create a protective measure for individuals with developmental disabilities by instituting a moratorium on the placement of registered sex offenders in residential settings. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for both vulnerable populations and registered sex offenders will be closely monitored.

Bill