Bill > HB1239

This bill amends existing law to create a new criminal provision targeting registered sex offenders who have committed sexual offenses against children under 13 years old. Specifically, it prohibits such offenders from knowingly appearing within 1,000 feet of certain locations under circumstances that would cause reasonable alarm, including childcare facilities, churches, schools, and areas where children typically gather. The offense is classified as a violation, which is typically a less serious type of legal infraction. Tier II and Tier III offender classifications (based on the severity of the original sexual offense) are referenced, indicating that not all sex offenders would be subject to these restrictions. The bill was requested by the Department of Safety and is set to take effect on January 1, 2027. While the fiscal note suggests potential indeterminable costs to the state and local governments due to potential increases in judicial and correctional system activities, no specific appropriations are anticipated. The legislation aims to enhance child safety by creating additional legal restrictions on sex offenders who have previously committed serious offenses against very young children.

Justice

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2307&inflect=2