Bill > S0515

This bill amends existing Rhode Island law to make it a felony for any registered sex offender to live within 300 feet of a school, regardless of their risk level. Previously, the law had different restrictions for level-three sex offenders, but this bill eliminates those distinctions, creating a uniform standard for all registered sex offenders. The bill modifies how the 300-foot distance is measured, specifying it should be calculated in a straight line from the nearest portion of the offender's property to the nearest property line of the school, without considering intervening structures. If convicted of violating this restriction, a sex offender could face up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. The bill also maintains existing penalties for sex offenders who fail to register or update their address, which can result in up to ten years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. The legislation will take effect immediately upon passage, potentially impacting where registered sex offenders can legally reside in relation to schools.

Justice

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