Elements of 'Jessica's Law' already on books in Idaho

Recently, many constituents have brought to our attention that Idaho has not enacted the Jessica Lunsford Act (Jessica's Law). However, Idaho has enacted many of the elements of Jessica's Law, only without the title.

During the 2006 Legislative session, the Idaho State Legislature already enacted new laws, and modified others that mirror Jessica's Law:

1. Sex offender registration requirements were increased, as were the maximum penalties for failing to register or update a registered address;

2. Restrictions were placed on how close sex offenders can live to schools, as well as restrictions placed for being on school grounds during activities when children are present;

3. Additional sex offenses were included in the list of aggravated circumstances that qualify for death penalty consideration;

4. The maximum criminal penalties for a number of sex offenses committed by previously convicted sex offenders were raised substantially; and,

5. The statutes of limitations for victims to report sexual abuse of a child and lewd conduct with a minor were eliminated.

In addition to the enactment and modifications of the laws by the Legislature, Idaho was one of the first states in the nation to join forces with the National Sex Offender Registry. The Idaho Department of Corrections has taken action by utilizing electronic monitoring to track high-risk sex offenders, which is a component of Jessica's Law.

Recently, President Bush signed into law The Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act which imposes additional procedures to identify and track sexual offenders. This act will cause numerous changes to our existing child safety procedures, which state policymakers have anticipated by identifying possible modifications to Idaho's laws. State policymakers await further instruction from the Federal Government before taking action.

Idaho's Criminal Justice Commission is collaborating with state policymakers to develop laws to comply with the Adam Walsh Act, hopefully with proposals ready for the 2008 Legislative session.

We will continue to fight for the safety of Idaho's children and maintain steadfastness to ensure laws are in place to protect the children of this state.

REP. ERIC ANDERSON

R-Priest Lake

REP. GEORGE ESKRIDGE

R-Dover

SEN. SHAWN KEOUGH

R-Sandpoint