New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A1904

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Prohibits sex offenders from attending certain elementary or secondary schools.

Impact

If enacted, A1904 would amend existing laws set forth in P.L.1994, c.133 (C.2C:7-1 et seq.), thereby reinforcing restrictions regarding where sex offenders can receive educational services. The bill imposes a classification of crime on violations of its provisions, defining it as a fourth-degree crime, which carries penalties that include imprisonment of up to 18 months and fines reaching $10,000. Importantly, the legislation mandates that educational boards provide alternative educational services to those prohibited from attending conventional schools, ensuring that the educational rights of such individuals, as guaranteed by law, are still addressed.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1904 aims to enhance public safety by prohibiting sex offenders from attending certain public or private elementary or secondary schools. Specifically, the legislation targets schools that are involved in the education of children under the age of 18, establishing that sex offenders cannot attend these institutions if they were not designated to provide educational services specifically for such individuals. This change seeks to safeguard minors by minimizing potential exposure to individuals who have a registered background concerning sexual offenses.

Contention

Notably, discussions surrounding A1904 might bring forth issues of rights versus public safety. Proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary to ensure the safety of children in school environments from potential threats posed by sex offenders. Critics, however, may raise concerns regarding the implications of restricting educational access based on past offenses, contending that it could further stigmatize and hinder the reintegration of individuals who are attempting to rehabilitate. The dialogue around this bill reflects broader societal challenges in balancing public safety with educational rights and opportunities for reintegration.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ A691

Requires local government notification of sex offender registration and prohibits sex offenders from living near schools, child care centers or playgrounds.

NJ A4389

Requires local government notification of sex offender registration and prohibits sex offenders from living near schools, child care centers or playgrounds.

NJ S1674

Requires local government notification of sex offender registration and prohibits sex offenders from living near schools, child care centers or playgrounds.

NJ S2369

Requires local government notification of sex offender registration and prohibits sex offenders from living near schools, child care centers or playgrounds.

NJ S161

Requires local government notification of sex offender registration and prohibits sex offenders from living near schools, child care centers or playgrounds.

NJ S3073

Authorizes municipality to enact ordinance regulating where certain sex offenders may reside.

NJ A752

Prohibits certain sex offenders from working in ice cream trucks and amusement parks.

NJ A1607

Prohibits certain sex offenders from working in ice cream trucks and amusement parks.

NJ S2778

Requires local government notification of sex offender registration; and prohibits sex offenders from living near schools, child care centers or playgrounds with few exceptions.

NJ HB2404

Prohibiting certain sex offenders from entering onto school property or attending school activities and creating criminal penalties for violation thereof.

Similar Bills

MO HB3002

APPROPRIATION BILL

MO HB3002

APPROPRIATION BILL

MO HB2

APPROPRIATION BILL

MO HB2002

Appropriates money for the expenses, grants, refunds, and distributions of the State Board of Education and Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

MO HB2

Appropriates money for the expenses, grants, refunds, and distributions of the State Board of Education and Department of Elementary and Secondary Education