Bill > SB78

This bill introduces new provisions for managing juvenile sex offenders, focusing on registration requirements and school attendance restrictions. Specifically, the bill establishes a separate registry for juvenile sex offenders maintained by the Department of Juvenile Services, which is only accessible to law enforcement. Juveniles who are at least 14 years old and have been adjudicated delinquent for certain sexual offenses may be required to register, with the requirement subject to a court hearing that determines the individual's risk of committing future sexually violent offenses. The bill mandates that registered juvenile sex offenders must appear in person every three months to update their information and have a digital image taken. Critically, the bill prohibits juveniles convicted or adjudicated delinquent of rape or a felony-level sexual offense from attending in-person classes at public or state-funded nonpublic schools. Instead, local school systems must provide alternative educational options for these students, which align with policies developed by county boards. The registration and school attendance restrictions aim to balance public safety concerns with the educational needs of juvenile offenders. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving schools and juvenile services time to prepare for implementation.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0078?ys=2025RS