The bill amends the Sex Offenders Registration Act to enhance the registration process for individuals convicted of listed offenses. Key updates include the requirement for individuals to register with local law enforcement within specified timeframes following changes in residence, employment, or educational status. It introduces provisions allowing individuals with out-of-state convictions to petition the circuit court to determine their registration obligations in Michigan, ensuring they are informed of their rights and responsibilities. Additionally, individuals notified of potential registration requirements must act within 30 days to avoid waiving their right to judicial review. Significant insertions clarify the responsibilities of registration agents and establish a notification process for those who may need to register due to comparable offenses in other jurisdictions.

The bill also revises the registration requirements for tiered offenders, particularly emphasizing that tier III offenders must comply for life unless their offense occurred before July 1, 2011, in which case the compliance period is reduced to 25 years. It allows individuals classified as tier I, tier II, or tier III offenders to petition the court to discontinue their registration under newly renumbered subsections. The court will assess whether the out-of-state offense is substantially similar to a registerable offense in Michigan and whether the individual poses a continuing threat to the public. The bill outlines specific requirements for granting petitions, including elapsed time since conviction and successful completion of treatment programs, while ensuring victim notification and participation in the process. The language has been updated to use gender-neutral terms, promoting a clearer and more equitable process for individuals seeking to discontinue their registration as sex offenders.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 28.724
As Passed by the Senate: 28.724