Schaffer, Brenner Introduce Legislation Banning Tier II and III Sex Offenders From Schools

COLUMBUS—State Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) and State Senator Andrew Brenner (R-Delaware) introduced Senate Bill 422 today, which prohibits Tier II and Tier III sex offenders from knowingly entering a school, preschool, or child care center.

“Our students need to be able to go to school without the fear of being groomed by convicted sex offenders,” Schaffer said. “It is essential that Ohio have statewide policy in place to protect our children from predators."

“This legislation is about setting clear, statewide standards to protect our students," Senator Brenner added. "Parents should never have to worry about who is allowed in their child’s school. By keeping Tier II and Tier III offenders out of school environments, we are taking a necessary step to ensure every student can learn in a safe and secure setting."

The legislation lists legitimate purposes where a Tier II or III sex offender may enter the school grounds. These exceptions include parents picking up or dropping off their children for the following reasons: at the start of or at the end of the school day, for school sponsored programs, and in the event of an emergency, illness, or medical appointment.

Another exception exists for parents who are Tier II and III sex offenders attending a parent-teacher conference after regular school hours. They also may enter to vote at a polling location located inside one of the prohibited grounds if it is outside of normally observed school hours.

Senate Bill 422 directs the county sheriff’s offices to
provide written notice to any Tier II or III sex offender that they are prohibited from entering a school, preschool, or childcare center.  The notice shall also include the list of the legitimate purposes for which the offender may be present. 

Under this bill, any violators will be charged with a misdemeanor of the first degree on a first offense, a felony of the fifth degree on a second offense, and a felony of the fourth degree on each subsequent offense.

Senate Bill 422 now awaits committee assignment for further consideration in the Ohio Senate. 

# # #