Regola reintroducing bill targeting child molesters

Would require chemical treatment for  sex offenses

State Senator Bob Regola (R-39) is reintroducing legislation that would provide for the chemical treatment of sex offenders who commit their crime on children under 16 years of age.  Commonly known as “chemical castration,” the treatment involves the use of medications to suppress one’s sex drive.

“My legislation would require that for offenses such as rape, incest, or sexual assault, a sex offender -- who is evaluated and recommended by a psychiatrist -- undergo chemical treatment as part of the offender’s sentence, if paroled,” said Sen. Regola.

Under Senate Bill 1235, the treatment would be discretionary for certain first offenses and mandatory for other crimes or subsequent offenses.  The legislation would also set penalties, including mandatory 10-year imprisonment, for those who fail to comply with the treatment.

“Chemical treatment of sex offenders is an accepted, safe and useful tool in the effort to protect our children from sexual predators,” said Regola.  “In this regard, a number of other states currently have such laws on the books.”

            In 1996 California became the first state to pass a chemical treatment law.  Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana, Oregon, Texas and Wisconsin have since passed measures.

Senate Bill 1235 has been referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee for consideration.  Senator Regola first introduced similar legislation during the 2005-06 Legislative Session.

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Contact:  Nate Silcox (717) 787-6063