SB 257 Summary

• Establishes 500-foot "zones of safety" around schools, child care centers, playgrounds, and parks operated by government or tribal entities where convicted sex offenders are prohibited from loitering.

• Penalizes violations as a felony with fines up to $2,500 and/or up to 1 year in county jail; second or subsequent violations punishable by fines up to $2,500 and/or 3+ years in state prison.

• Exempts custodial parents/legal guardians from zone restrictions when enrolling, delivering, or retrieving their own children at schools or licensed child care facilities during regular hours or sanctioned activities, with advance notice to administrators.

• Provides medical treatment exceptions for hospital and licensed medical facilities, and allows registered sex offenders to attend recognized religious services with prior written permission from the religious leader.

• Effective date: November 1, 2011.