LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) - The state House has passed legislation to prohibit certain sex offenders from swimming areas and playgrounds in state parks.
The House voted 90-0 Monday to pass a bill to make it a Class D felony for Level 3 and 4 sex offenders to be present at swimming areas or playgrounds within a state park. One member voted present on the bill sponsored by Republican Sen. Missy Irvin of Mountain View.
A Level 4 offender is considered a sexually violent predator. A Level 3 offender is considered a high risk to reoffend.
The House also voted to impose a $250 fee on new residents to Arkansas who are required to register as a sex offender.
Both bills have passed the Senate and are expected to be signed by Gov. Mike Beebe.
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