Bill > HB3040

This bill expands the definition of a "zone of safety" to include places that primarily cater to or provide services for minors, such as skating rinks, youth recreation centers, public swimming pools, arcades, amusement parks, and water parks, in addition to existing locations like schools, child care centers, playgrounds, and parks. This means that individuals convicted of certain sex offenses, particularly those requiring registration under the Sex Offenders Registration Act or similar offenses in other jurisdictions involving a child victim under sixteen, are prohibited from loitering within 500 feet of these expanded zones. Furthermore, individuals designated as habitual or aggravated sex offenders are prohibited from entering any zone of safety. The bill also clarifies that a "park" includes outdoor public areas designated for recreation and supported by various governmental authorities or homeowners' associations. Exceptions are provided for registered sex offenders who are custodial parents or legal guardians of a child attending a school or child care facility, provided they inform administrators of their status and receive written permission from a religious leader to attend worship services. The bill also specifies that receiving medical treatment at a licensed facility does not fall under these restrictions, excluding psychological or rehabilitative counseling. Finally, the bill sets an effective date of November 1, 2026.

Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb3040&Session=2600