The bill amends the Sex Offenders Registration Act to enhance regulations surrounding registered offenders and their employment, particularly in roles involving children. It establishes that individuals registered under the Act are prohibited from working with children or on school premises, and imposes penalties for violations, including fines up to $1,000. Additionally, businesses providing services to children must conduct annual name searches against the sex offender registry and require employees to sign statements confirming they are not registered offenders. Failure to comply with these requirements will also result in misdemeanor charges.
New provisions in the bill mandate that any person or business employing registered offenders in environments where children are present must post clear signage indicating the employment of such individuals. This requirement aims to ensure transparency and safety for children. The bill also specifies that law enforcement agencies cannot employ individuals with certain convictions related to the Sex Offenders Registration Act, and it revokes any existing certifications for such individuals. The effective date for these changes is set for November 1, 2026.