HARRISBURG – Children in Pennsylvania would be better protected against sexual predators under legislation unanimously approved by the Senate 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, a conviction for this offense does not require registration as sex offender. Closing this loophole will strengthen SORNA and ensure potentially violent sex offenders can be properly monitored, Baker and Martin said.
“Children and families deserve to know that those entrusted with authority in youth sports and nonprofits are being held fully accountable when that trust is violated,” Baker said. “This legislation reflects our commitment to closing potentially dangerous gaps in the law and ensuring that sexual predators cannot hide behind a title or a uniform. It is a necessary and overdue measure to strengthen protections for our most vulnerable.”
Similar legislation sponsored by Baker and Martin was introduced during the 2023-24 Legislative Session and approved by the Senate unanimously.
“Crimes against children are disgraceful, and we cannot afford to let any offender slip through the cracks to victimize young people,” Martin said. “Our bill will ensure individuals who are in a position of authority over children and are convicted of sexual assault can be monitored and evaluated to minimize the risks they pose to minors.”
Senate Bill 255 now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.
CONTACTS:
Jennifer Wilson (Sen. Baker)
Jason Thompson (Sen. Martin)