Senate Bill No. 1194, also known as File No. 521, is a legislative proposal that seeks to modify the sex offense registry requirements in Connecticut. The bill proposes to remove the retroactive registration requirement for individuals released into the community between October 1, 1988, and October 1, 1998, who were convicted or found not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect of a sexually violent offense. It also mandates that sex offenders convicted in other jurisdictions who are transferred to Connecticut, including those in congregate care settings, must register with the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection promptly. The bill includes insertions such as the Commissioner of Correction's responsibility to register certain details of the offender and deletions, including changes in the numbering format of the legal text. The bill is effective upon passage, except for the provision regarding the registration of sex offenders in congregate care settings, which will take effect on October 1, 2023, and it is not expected to have a fiscal impact on state or municipal governments.

The bill also clarifies the obligations of out-of-state sex offenders residing in Connecticut, particularly those in congregate care settings, to register on the state's sex offender registry. It outlines the penalties for failing to register or report as required, which is classified as a class D felony, with potential consequences of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. The registration periods for offenders vary based on the offense category, with different durations for criminal offenses against a minor, nonviolent sexual offenses, and sexually violent offenses. The Judiciary Committee has given the bill joint favorable action, indicating its progress through the legislative process.