General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1500 proposes significant amendments to the registration and verification processes for sexual offender registrants. Key provisions include the requirement for registrants to verify their residence addresses through forms mailed to them and to submit to a photographic retake upon request from the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection. The bill clarifies penalties for non-compliance, categorizing intentional failures to notify the Commissioner of changes in name, address, or status as class D felonies, while unintentional violations may result in infractions if the registrant did not receive the necessary verification form. Additionally, the bill introduces new language that mandates the court to inform individuals of their registration obligations before accepting a plea, ensuring they understand the consequences.

The legislation also modifies the registration requirements for individuals convicted of specific sexual offenses, allowing courts to exempt certain offenders from registration based on criteria such as age at the time of the offense. It repeals and replaces existing sections of the law, establishing a framework for the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection to maintain a registry and verify addresses every ninety days. The bill emphasizes the importance of accurate and up-to-date registration information to enhance public safety, with provisions for registrants to submit verification forms by mail, facsimile, or electronic mail before January 1, 2026, and to eventually allow oral submissions. Overall, Raised Bill No. 1500 aims to strengthen monitoring of sexual offenders while balancing public safety and the rights of individuals.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 54-251, 54-252, 54-253, 54-254, 54-257
JUD Joint Favorable: 54-251, 54-252, 54-253, 54-254, 54-257
File No. 799: 54-251, 54-252, 54-253, 54-254, 54-257
APP Joint Favorable: 54-251, 54-252, 54-253, 54-254, 54-257