BERKELEY, Calif. (AP) — The California Supreme Court is set to hear arguments challenging a key section of a law aimed at protecting children from sexual predators. Opponents say the residency requirement in Jessica's Law violates the constitutional rights of sex offenders.
The law prohibits registered sex offenders from living within 2,000 feet of a school or park. It mandates that all those paroled after Nov. 8, 2006 — when the law took effect — comply, or have their parole revoked and face new prison terms.
Four registered sex offenders have sued the state, arguing the requirement makes it impossible to find a place to live that's in compliance with the law.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and the state Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation say they support the measure, saying it protects children.
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