NASSAU BID TO TOUGHEN LAW TARGETING SEX OFFENDERS

Democratic legislators in Nassau today intend to propose a new law that would bar convicted sex offenders registered under Megan's Law from establishing a residence within 600 feet of schools or playgrounds.  The proposal is sponsored by Legislator Kevan Abrahams (D-Hempstead) and it is an extension of the state Sex Offender Registration Act, which requires offenders to register on a database that tracks their whereabouts.  The new proposal would bar the most violent sex offenders, Levels 2 and 3, from permanently or temporarily living within 600 feet of public or private schools or playgrounds where minors assemble.  The new law does not bar Level 1 sex offenders, although a similar proposal in Suffolk would bar Level 1 offenders.  Violation of the proposed law would be considered a misdemeanor with a possible fine of up to $1,000.  Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Lloyd Harbor) told Newsday that he intends late this month to introduce a similar bill that would prohibit all registered sex offenders from residing within a quarter-mile of elementary through high schools, playgrounds or daycare centers.

(New York)