H.R.1205 - Safe Shelters Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1205, the Safe Shelters Act of 2025, aims to prohibit certain sex offenders from using general emergency shelters. It mandates the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to designate specific shelters for these individuals during disasters. The bill also outlines penalties for non-compliance and requires information dissemination regarding designated shelters.
Expected Effects
This bill will likely lead to the creation of separate emergency shelters for covered sex offenders. It will also place additional responsibilities on FEMA, the General Services Administration (GSA), and the Bureau of Prisons. The Act could potentially reduce the risk of sexual offenses in general emergency shelters.
Potential Benefits
- Increased safety for vulnerable populations in emergency shelters.
- Clear guidelines and procedures for managing sex offenders during disasters.
- Designated shelters may provide specialized services tailored to the needs of covered sex offenders.
- Improved information dissemination regarding shelter options.
- Potential reduction in fear and anxiety among shelter users.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential stigma and discrimination against covered sex offenders.
- Logistical challenges in establishing and maintaining separate shelters.
- Increased costs associated with designated shelters and additional FEMA responsibilities.
- Possible legal challenges based on equal protection or due process grounds.
- Difficulty in enforcing the notification requirement for covered sex offenders entering undesignated shelters.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality could be challenged under the Fifth Amendment's Due Process Clause and the Eighth Amendment's prohibition of cruel and unusual punishment, depending on the implementation and conditions of the designated shelters. The Commerce Clause provides the basis for federal regulation when the bill affects interstate commerce, as stated in the penalty section. The Tenth Amendment could be invoked if the federal government unduly infringes on state responsibilities in managing emergency shelters.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).