Nassau County is now doing even more to protect our children. In honoring my campaign promise to crack down on sex offenders, my colleagues and I in the Nassau County Legislature have introduced a bill that creates residency restrictions for registered sex offenders. This groundbreaking legislation was approved by the Public Safety, Finance, and Rules committees on March 20, and will likely be passed by the full legislature on April 3.

These new residency restrictions are a significant enhancement of Nassau County's pre-existing Megan's Law, making our legislation the toughest and most complete Megan's Law in New York State. Upon the approval of the legislature and County Executive Suozzi, all registered sex offenders will be prohibited from residing within 1,000 feet from the entrances of a school, or 500 feet from the perimeter of a county, town, village, or city-run public park which contains a playground. Violations will be punishable by a fine up to $1,000 or possible jail time. The law applies not only to permanent residences but also to any home where a sex offender may visit as well. This is a common-sense approach to further protect our children from those who would prey upon them.

A great deal of time and effort was applied to drafting this legislation to ensure that it was not only strong and efficient, but constitutionally sound as well. Although sex offenders are known to have the highest recidivism rates for felony sex offenses, repeat offenses are vastly under-reported. We must work to create an environment where victims can be assured that the system is working for them, and that their elected officials will do everything possible under the law for their security. Our nationally renowned Megan's Law is a crucial first step.

I have made a commitment to protect Nassau County's most vulnerable residents, and as recently appointed vice-chairperson of the legislature's Public Safety Committee, I will now have even more resources available to fight for you. Please never hesitate to contact me at 571-6214 with any questions or concerns, or visit www.NassauCountyNY.gov for more information.