Having experienced the trauma and devastation caused by a child predator, I am compelled to advocate for more stringent laws that offer greater protection to our children. It is alarming to know that current legislation permits convicted child predators to reside as close as 2,000 feet from schools, parks, and other places frequented by children. **This distance is insufficient to protect the vulnerable and must be extended to a minimum of 3 miles.**

Numerous studies have demonstrated that proximity can increase the risk of reoffense. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, an estimated 60% of sexual assault victims are age 17 or younger, highlighting the urgent need for greater protective measures. The current 2,000 feet rule, often equivalent to less than half a mile, lacks the adequate buffer zone needed to ensure the safety of minors.

**Implementing a 3-mile residency law** would provide a more effective deterrent and create an essential layer of security for communities. Under this new legislation, child predators would be required to maintain a safe distance from locations where children gather, thus reducing the threat of repeat offenses and allowing families greater peace of mind.

Cities such as Miami and Orlando have already adopted stricter residency restrictions, proving that more significant protective measures are not only possible but effective. By following their example, we can ensure that our communities are equipped with the necessary legal framework to defend our children adequately.

Transitioning to a 3-mile law is not just about encroaching on the lives of former offenders but prioritizing the safety and welfare of every child in our communities. The emotional and psychological impacts of sexual crimes on young victims can last a lifetime, making it imperative for us to take every possible action to prevent such abuses.

By signing this petition, you are lending your voice to a critical initiative focused on safeguarding our children from those who have historically threatened their safety. Support the call for change and help us convince lawmakers of the pressing need for extended residency restrictions. Let us work together to ensure a safer future for every child.