Missouri’s Sex Offender Law Could Face Legal Challenge

Missouri’s law requiring sex offenders to have their names compiled in a list with local law enforcement officials could be challenged this fall in the US Supreme Court. Missouri’s law is similar to a Connecticut law struck down by a federal judge on Constitutional grounds. An appeal on the Connecticut law decision is expected to be heard sometime this fall. State Attorney General Jay Nixon calls Missouri’s law on the books “common sense.” Nixon says for those who argue the registration is intrusive, hebelieves it is not too much to ask, given the offense. Nixon’s office has already filed a brief backing Connecticut’s law, andhe expects more information will be provided for the case in November. A final decision could come next spring. In the meantime, Missouri’s law remains in full effect.