A Missouri Supreme Court ruling earlier this year says that those convicted of sex crimes before Megan's Law went into effect in 1995 cannot have their names placed on the sexual offender registry.
In his latest letter to constituents, Sen. Jason Crowell, R-Cape Girardeau, wrote about legislation he has pre-filed which would close that loophole:
For the 2007 session, I am pre-filing legislation allowing voters to overturn that ruling. The Missouri Constitution is one of only five in the nation that includes wording that essentially protects pre-1995 convicted sex offenders. Even though the court was just doing its job in preventing unconstitutionality, that doesn't mean those who were found guilty before 1995 are any less dangerous to our children. I want to give Missouri voters the chance to amend the Constitution so those who pose a threat to Missouri families are not allowed to hide under the radar.
I am sure many Missourians join me in not wanting predators to seek refuge in the Show-Me State because a loophole in Missouri’s Constitution protects their identity and whereabouts. That is why it is necessary that we strike the problematic language from our state constitution so Megan’s Law remains a comprehensive shield for our children.
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