The proposed bill amends the Sex Offenders Registration Act by adding a new section, 5d, which establishes employment restrictions for individuals required to register under the act. Specifically, it prohibits these individuals from being employed by businesses that primarily provide services to individuals under the age of 18, such as martial arts studios, dance studios, summer camps, tutoring services, and various recreational venues that allow unsupervised access to minors. Violations of this section are classified as misdemeanors, with penalties including imprisonment for up to one year and fines up to $1,000 for first offenses, while subsequent violations are classified as felonies, carrying penalties of up to four years in prison and fines up to $2,000.
Additionally, the bill mandates that at the time of initial registration and during each verification, the registering authority must provide written notice to the registered individuals regarding these employment restrictions. This notice will outline the specific categories of businesses and activities where employment is prohibited, ensuring that individuals are aware of the legal limitations imposed on their employment opportunities. The bill is set to take effect 90 days after being enacted into law.
Statutes affected: House Introduced Bill: 28.721, 28.730
As Passed by the House: 28.721, 28.730