South Lancaster News

The Senate Judiciary Committee in Pennsylvania has approved a bill aimed at enhancing protection for children against sexual predators. The legislation, co-authored by Senators Lisa Baker and Scott Martin, proposes changes to the state's list of sexual offenses.

Senate Bill 255 seeks to categorize the crime of sexual assault by a sports official, volunteer, or employee of a nonprofit association as a Tier II sexual offense. This change would require those found guilty to register as sexual offenders under the Sexual Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). Under existing laws, individuals convicted for such crimes are not obligated to register, a gap the new legislation aims to close.

Senator Baker, who chairs the Judiciary Committee, emphasized the moral gravity of such offenses, stating, “Sexual assault in any circumstance is reprehensible and intolerable. When we hear about seemingly civic-minded individuals using their positions of responsibility to take advantage of kids who trust them, it is doubly infuriating for parents and the community at large. We owe greater protection to children engaged in enriching and enjoyable activities. This bill plugs a gap in our anti-predator laws.”

Senator Martin added that the proposed bill ensures that this form of sexual assault is regarded with equal seriousness as other offenses under SORNA. “Passing this bill will ensure anyone convicted of this crime will have to register as a sex offender and be evaluated by the Sexual Offender Assessment Board to determine if they are a sexually violent predator,” he said.

A similar initiative was introduced by the same senators during the 2023-24 Legislative Session, where it received unanimous support from the Senate. The current legislation, Senate Bill 255, will proceed to the full Senate for further consideration.