This bill amends the Kansas Offender Registration Act to prohibit certain sex offenders from residing within 1,000 feet of any school property. Specifically, it targets sex offenders who are 18 years or older and required to register for life due to crimes against victims under 14 years of age. However, exceptions are made for offenders who resided within that distance prior to July 1, 2026, or those whose residence was not previously within 1,000 feet but has since become so due to the establishment of new school property. These offenders must notify the appropriate law enforcement agency and provide proof of their residency status.
Additionally, the bill amends K.S.A. 22-4902 to clarify definitions related to offenders, including sex offenders, violent offenders, and drug offenders, while also repealing the existing section. The new language specifies the criteria for what constitutes a sex offender and outlines the types of crimes that fall under this classification. The bill aims to enhance community safety by restricting the proximity of certain sex offenders to schools, thereby protecting children from potential harm.
Statutes affected: As introduced: 22-4902