Assembly Committee Approves Lieu's Legislation To Strengthen Sex Offender Laws

Sacramento , CA – The Assembly Public Safety Committee on Tuesday, approved Assemblymember Ted W. Lieu’s, (D-Torrance) legislation, AB 1900, which will close loopholes in California’s sex offender laws.

The Assembly Public Safety Committee voted 5-0 for AB 1900, Lieu’s first piece of legislation. This bill, which is sponsored by Attorney General Bill Lockyer, strengthens the California sex offender registration requirements and makes it illegal for registered sex offenders to be alone with a minor in the work place.

“I am proud that we are ensuring that our children are as safe as possible from sexual predators,” said Lieu. “AB 1900 will close existing loopholes, and as a result will help make our communities a safer place to live, work, and raise a family.”

Currently, Megan’s Law requires individuals convicted of specific sex crimes to register as a sex offender, as well as annually update their information with their local law enforcement agency. Since 1996, Megan’s Law has been a vital resource in making people aware of sex offenders residing in their community. However, through the course of implementation, the Attorney General has discovered several problems in the way California deals with sex offenders.  AB 1900 will close these gaps and ensure that our laws fully protect families and children. 

“AB 1900 will help protect our children from dangerous sexual predators,” said Lieu. “It is our job as legislators to arm the public with information about dangerous sex offenders and help secure the safety of our families.”

AB 1900 will be sent to the Assembly Appropriations Committee before it is heard on the Assembly floor. This bill is supported by Crime Victims United and the California District Attorney’s Association.