Bill > H1779

This bill amends Massachusetts law to prohibit certain sex offenders from loitering near school bus stops, specifically targeting level 2 and level 3 registered sex offenders who are currently required to be on the sex offender registry. Under the proposed legislation, these sex offenders would be banned from remaining within 500 feet of a designated school bus stop for more than 15 minutes. An exception is made for sex offenders who are parents or legal guardians of a child using the bus stop, allowing them to remain until their child has been dropped off or picked up. Violations of this law would result in escalating penalties: a first offense carries a $500 fine, a second offense includes a $1,000 fine or up to 3 months in a house of correction, and third or subsequent offenses result in a $1,500 fine and 3 to 2.5 years of imprisonment. Any violation would also require written notification to the sex offender registry board. The bill aims to enhance safety around school bus stops by creating additional restrictions for sex offenders.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1779