H.R. 779: Stop Sexually Violent Predators Act

This bill, known as the "Stop Sexually Violent Predators Act," aims to strengthen the legal framework regarding the monitoring and prosecution of individuals deemed sexually dangerous. It proposes several key changes to existing laws to improve the management of sexual offenders and enhance community safety.

Key Provisions

1. State Reporting Requirements

The bill amends existing law to require states to report and submit a list to the Attorney General of individuals convicted of sexually dangerous offenses in the previous fiscal year. This aims to ensure that the federal authorities have updated information on sexual offenders for better management and monitoring.

2. Federal Prosecution Review

It mandates that the Attorney General review the list of convicted individuals to determine if any should be prosecuted for federal offenses. This provision intends to ensure that cases of sexually dangerous persons are evaluated for potential federal charges, allowing for more severe penalties if appropriate.

3. Limitations on Federal Funding for Healthcare

The bill introduces restrictions on federal funding through Medicaid and Medicare for individuals classified as having committed sexually violent offenses. Specifically:

• Medicaid: States will not receive federal payments for medical assistance provided to these specified individuals.
• Medicare: These individuals will also be deemed ineligible for hospital insurance and medical insurance benefits under the Medicare program, excluding those who are receiving involuntary treatment as inpatients in hospitals or skilled nursing facilities.

4. Enhanced SORNA Reporting Requirements

The bill increases the reporting requirements under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). It mandates the inclusion of information about any relevant court cases associated with registered sex offenders, thereby fostering greater transparency and tracking of offenders’ legal situations.

5. Definition of Specified Individuals

The legislation defines "specified individuals" as those convicted of a sexually violent offense and declared to be sexually dangerous. This clear definition helps identify the individuals affected by the bill's provisions.

Impact and Implementation

The proposed changes aim to create more robust measures to protect communities from sexually violent predators. By tightening reporting requirements, imposing limitations on funding for healthcare, and introducing a review process for federal prosecutions, the bill seeks to enhance the legal structures already in place for managing sexual offenders.

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