Evers Vetoes Bill Allowing Sex Offender Placement Near Schools

Governor Tony Evers has vetoed a bill that would have
allowed violent sex offenders to live within 1,500 feet of schools and other
places where children are likely to be present.

Supporters of the bill argue that counties need more
flexibility in where to place sex offenders who are on supervised release. Those
supporters say urban areas in particular were in need of more flexibility to
find housing for the offenders in areas where the 1,500 foot restriction was
hard to follow.  

The Governor said Friday that he objects to weakening protections
in the law which keep sexually violent offenders away from schools, day care
centers and other similar facilities. He says providing safe spaces for
children is “one of the most vital responsibilities of society.”

Governor Scott Walker vetoed the same law change in 2008.