House approves bill allowing early removal from sex offender registry

SALT LAKE CITY — The House unanimously approved a bill Tuesday allowing some sex offenders to seek early removal from Utah’s sex offender registry.

HB13 permits those convicted of unlawful sexual activity with a minor or unlawful sexual conduct with a 16- or 17-year-old to petition the court to be taken off the registry after five years.

Bill sponsor Jack Draxler, R-North Logan, said the measure would provide offenders the opportunity for reformation and redemption.

He told the story of a 19-year-old man who was convicted for having sex with a 15-year-old girl. Now 10 years later, they are married and have four children

“He cannot take his children to the park. He cannot take his children to   parent teacher conference,” Draxler said.

Offenders would have to meet certain requirements including not having committed any other crimes, paid restitution and completed court-ordered counseling.

The bill now moves to the Senate.