https://www.ksl.com/article/50320183/utah-state-senators-bill-would-amend-restrictions-for-sex-offenders

SALT LAKE CITY — A bill that could come up in the 2022 legislative session would change restrictions for sex offenders. The bill is sponsored by Utah state Sen. Mike Kennedy, R-Alpine.

The bill that could come up in next month's legislative session would amend the state's sex offender registry. Senate Bill 0052 would allow registered sex offenders to go to places like schools and parks, if they are with an adult. Also, if passed, the bill would replace the term "sex offender" with "registrant."

University of Utah law professor Paul Cassell is a leading researcher on criminal and civil justice issues. In his research and publications, Cassell focuses on themes such as victim's rights, wrongful convictions, interrogation and confessions and proactive policing.

Cassell expressed some skepticism about the bill. He acknowledged the balance of interests that exists with the sex offender registry. But, "that balance has to tip decisively in favor of protecting victims and protecting the public," said Cassell.

Law professor's view of the bill

Cassell told KSL NewsRadio that right now, victims know sex offenders won't be in certain protected areas. The bill would change that.

In particular, replacing the term "sex offender" with "registrant" would be misleading to the public, Cassell said. Everyone knows what a sex offender is but people might not know what "registrant" means, he said.

Although offenders would benefit from the proposed changes to the registry, Cassell said the interests of survivors of sexual assault should take precedence.

Cassell said Utah's sex offender registry has been around for decades. He thinks it's working fine as is.