Senator Zeldin Announces Senate Passage of His Legislation Restricting a Registered Sex Offender from Residing Within 500 Feet of a School

Albany, NY- Senator Lee M. Zeldin (R, C, I- Shirley) announced that the New York State Senate last night passed his legislation that restricts a registered sex offender from residing within 500 feet of a school.

“This legislation will help ensure that our children are protected,” said Senator Zeldin.

This bill is designed to give children a further buffer from sexual offenders by preventing already convicted offenders from residing within 500 feet of a school. Studies have shown that recidivism rates for sex offenders are higher than ninety percent. The enactment of this bill is a necessary step towards ensuring the safety of the children of the state and preventing them from becoming targets of opportunity to criminals who already have proven themselves a danger to children.

“Our communities should not be dumping grounds for sexual offenders. By preventing convicted level 1, 2, or 3 sex offenders from residing within 500 feet of a building used exclusively as an elementary or high school, we can provide security to not only our children but also parents,” said Senator Zeldin.

The bill has been sent to the Assembly.