HARRISBURG – Children in Pennsylvania would be better protected against sexual predators under legislation approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee today, according to the bill’s authors, Sens. Lisa Baker (R-20) and Scott Martin (R-13).
Senate Bill 255 adds the crime of sexual assault by a sports official, volunteer or employee of nonprofit association as a Tier II sexual offense, requiring individuals convicted of this offense to register as a sexual offender under the Sexual Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).
Under current law, those convicted of this offense are not required to register as sex offenders. Closing this loophole will strengthen SORNA and ensure potentially violent sex offenders can be properly monitored, Baker and Martin said.
“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,” said Baker, who serves as Judiciary Committee Chair.
“This form of sexual assault deserves to be considered on the same level as other similar offenses in the eyes of SORNA,” Martin said. “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.”
Similar legislation sponsored by Baker and Martin was introduced during the 2023-24 Legislative Session and approved by the Senate unanimously.
Senate Bill 255 now heads to the full Senate for consideration.
CONTACT: Jennifer Wilson (Senator Baker)
Jason Thompson (Senator Martin)