The State of California is considering trimming their registry to include only those who present greatest risk.
California, which has a registry that closely mirrors Florida’s (lifetime registry, no tiers), is realizing that after years of diminishing resources and failure, the registry needs to be trimmed.
They are currently considering presenting a proposal that would remove lower level registrants from the registry and/or allowing them to petition for removal.
The story can be seen here.
Relieving low risk registered citizens may be helpful to the citizens and state; however, the catch 22 here is that since they have no risk levels to start with they only have a vague idea at best as to what the low risk offender really is. The same problem exists in Florida. This is a case where harsh punishment comes back with harsh consequences for the punisher.
I find hope in the fact that Calif. is leading the way , where hopefully other states will follow. due to the fact Calif. has had a public registry since 1956. It is hopeful that thier extensive history is providing them with a great deal of research on what is working and what is not. We must continue to promote the continued modification of the registry and its effectiveness , noneffectiveness, and collateral consequences to provide true community saftey to all citisens.