Kentucky lawmakers discuss bill that could change distance sex offenders can live from school

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WDRB) -- Lawmakers talked about a bill Thursday that could change the distance sex offenders can liver from schools.

Rep. Kim Banta, R-Ft. Mitchell, proposed House Bill 67, which would change the distance sex offenders can live from schools, playgrounds and day cares from 1,000 to 3,000 feet.

Banta said the bill was sparked after a complaint from a constituent of a sex offender watching children at school from his house with binoculars.

But some lawmakers are concerned the bill would leave offenders with nowhere to live in small towns.

"They can't even live in the counties I represent if you pass this rule," I hope you take that into consideration," Sen. Johnnie Turner, R-Harlan, said.

Other lawmakers said they're concerned this would push offenders to rural areas with smaller police forces. The next legislative session starts in January.