Prohibits sex offenders whose victim was a child and level 3 sex offenders from knowingly being within 1,000 feet of a facility where pre-kindergarten or kindergarten instruction is provided

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jessica Scarcella-Spanton

Bill S 3522 prohibits child sex offenders and level 3 offenders from being within 1,000 feet of pre-kindergarten and kindergarten facilities, enhancing child safety.

REFERRED TO CRIME VICTIMS, CRIME AND CORRECTION

Summary of Bill S 3522

Bill Number: S 3522
Title: Prohibits sex offenders whose victim was a child and level 3 sex offenders from knowingly being within 1,000 feet of a facility where pre-kindergarten or kindergarten instruction is provided
Status: Referred to Crime Victims, Crime and Correction
Introduced: January 28, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 3522 is to enhance the safety of young children by restricting the proximity of certain sex offenders to educational facilities that provide pre-kindergarten and kindergarten instruction. The bill aims to create a safer environment for children by preventing known offenders from being near locations where young children are present.

Key Provisions

Prohibition on Proximity: The bill specifically prohibits sex offenders whose victims were children, as well as level 3 sex offenders (who are classified as having the highest risk of reoffending), from knowingly being within 1,000 feet of any facility that offers pre-kindergarten or kindergarten instruction.

Definition of Offenders:

Child Victim Offenders: Individuals who have been convicted of sex offenses against minors.
Level 3 Sex Offenders: Offenders classified as high-risk based on their criminal history and likelihood of reoffending.

Affected Parties

Sex Offenders: The bill directly impacts individuals classified as level 3 sex offenders and those convicted of offenses against child victims, restricting their movements near educational facilities.

Educational Facilities: Pre-kindergarten and kindergarten institutions will benefit from increased safety measures, as the bill aims to reduce the risk of potential encounters between young children and offenders.

Parents and Guardians: The legislation is designed to provide peace of mind to parents and guardians regarding the safety of their children while attending educational programs.

Procedural Aspects

Legislative Action: The bill was introduced on January 28, 2025, and has been referred to the Crime Victims, Crime and Correction committee for further consideration.

Related Legislation: This bill is part of a series of related legislative efforts, as indicated by its connection to prior-session bills (S 1520, S 1787, S 1983, S 5871, and S 5580), which may address similar issues regarding the safety of children and the regulation of sex offenders.

Conclusion

Bill S 3522 represents a legislative effort to enhance child safety in educational environments by imposing restrictions on certain sex offenders. By establishing a clear boundary of 1,000 feet around pre-kindergarten and kindergarten facilities, the bill seeks to mitigate risks and promote a safer atmosphere for young learners. Further discussions and evaluations will take place as the bill moves through the legislative process.