Pennsylvania’s ‘Sex Offender’ Registry Law (“PA Megan’s Law”) was enacted in 1995 in response to a national fear-based campaign. Using several high-profile crimes, advocates pushed Pennsylvania legislators to do ‘something’ to prevent the proliferation of crimes of a sexual nature. The registry was created with no research or facts to back it up, but based on the idea that individuals with past convictions have a “Frightening and High” likelihood of reoffending. In 2004, the registry was published on the internet. In 2011, it was extended to include assorted other crimes and the number of persons forced to register (PFRs) in Pennsylvania expanded. The Supreme Court of Pennsylvania has declared it unconstitutional several times, only to have it reworded enough to remain in effect.
Now, nearly 30 years later, the registry dehumanizes more than 23,000 citizens. Publishing personal information online leaves PFRs open to scams, vandalism, and other hate-based crimes. While the same fears that pushed the registry remain, three decades of research now debunks those fears. The research findings are clear: the registry is both punitive and ineffective in protecting our communities.
The Pennsylvania Association for Rational Sexual Offense Laws (PARSOL) believes all sexual abuse is unacceptable and that prevention, treatment, and healing are possible. We take a person-first approach to criminal justice reform that cultivates a fair and just society, honors inherent dignity and promotes respect and fairness. People can and do change. As such, PARSOL advocates for sexual offense public safety measures and resources that work for all through prevention-based, trauma/treatment-informed, and healing-focused legislative and public policy initiatives that respect our Constitution and all people’s dignity.
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