Connecticut House Bill HB06183

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/19
• Refer: 1/25/19

Caption

An Act Requiring The Department Of Emergency Services And Public Protection To Establish A Registry Of Perpetrators Of Child Abuse And Neglect.

Impact

The implementation of this bill would have significant implications for current state laws concerning child abuse and neglect. By creating a publicly accessible database, the bill facilitates easier identification of individuals with a history of such offenses. This could empower citizens to make informed decisions regarding the safety of their children and could assist law enforcement in addressing potential risks more effectively. However, the bill also allows individuals who are registered to petition for removal of their names from the registry if doing so would protect the identity of a victim, which adds a layer of compassion to the legislation.

Summary

House Bill 6183 aims to establish and maintain a public registry of individuals in Connecticut who have been convicted of crimes involving child abuse or neglect. This legislative initiative is spearheaded by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, which would oversee the creation and upkeep of this registry. The bill seeks to enhance public safety by ensuring that information regarding perpetrators is accessible to the community, thus potentially preventing further incidents of child abuse and neglect.

Contention

Notably, while the bill is viewed positively by many who advocate for child protection and public safety, there may be concerns regarding privacy and the implications for rehabilitation. Critics of similar legislation often argue that public registries can lead to stigmatization and hinder the reintegration of offenders into society. Balancing the public’s right to know with the potential for unjust repercussions on individuals who have served their sentences remains a pivotal point of contention in discussions surrounding HB 6183.