As of 2026, registered sex offenders in Michigan are not generally prohibited from living near schools. The 1,000-foot "student safety zone" restriction, which previously banned them from living or loitering near school property, was repealed by Public Act 295 of 2020 following federal court rulings

I'm writing this today as someone who has experienced the troubling perils of having sex offenders approach children and adults during their daily routines. I've had people close to me, including myself, who have been approached multiple times by sex offenders while simply walking home from school or accompanying my child on their walk. This unsettling reality is not just my own; it is a fear shared by many in our community.

In the state of Michigan, the safety of our children and victims of sexual offenses must be our top priority. Currently, Michigan law imposes certain restrictions on registered sex offenders. However, there exists a critical oversight in ensuring comprehensive protection against potential risks they may pose to vulnerable populations.

First and foremost, sex offenders who have been convicted with crimes against minors should be legally required to maintain a significant distance from schools and daycares. This measure is essential to safeguard the environments where children spend a large portion of their time, ensuring that parents and guardians can have peace of mind about their children's safety when they are at school or daycare.

Additionally, individuals with sex offense convictions involving adult victims should also face similar restrictions regarding proximity to their victims and should live a certain distance from their victims homes and or work. Also, should not be able to have any type of contact over the phone / internet. If the offender at the time has no knowledge of where the victims live their addresses should be immediately be a non public record as well as if they move to a new address. This would prevent any possibility of harassment or continued traumatization, allowing victims to live without the fear of encountering their assailant in their normal, everyday environments.

Research from the National Institute of Justice indicates that sex offenders have one of the highest risk rates for recidivism. By enforcing these distance restrictions, Michigan can create safer communities where victims feel secure and empowered to rebuild their lives without constant concern for their safety.

While some might argue that these measures further punish offenders who have already served their time, it is important to recognize that public safety and the prevention of future offenses must remain a priority. Other states have implemented similar regulations with positive results, indicating a clear path forward for Michigan.

We call on the Michigan State Legislature to pass laws that enforce these distance restrictions stringently. This proactive approach can significantly decrease the risk of recidivism and increase public confidence in the safety of our communities.

If you believe in creating a safer Michigan for children and victims, join us in this effort. Please sign this petition to advocate for the necessary changes to Michigan's sex offender laws.