H.R.779 - Stop Sexually Violent Predators Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.779, the "Stop Sexually Violent Predators Act," aims to increase protections against sexually dangerous persons. It mandates states to report individuals convicted of sexually dangerous offenses to the Attorney General for potential federal prosecution. The bill also includes provisions that limit federal funding for healthcare (Medicaid and Medicare) for specified individuals convicted of sexually violent offenses, with an exception for involuntary treatment in hospitals or skilled nursing facilities.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely increase the scrutiny and potential federal prosecution of individuals deemed sexually dangerous. It may also lead to reduced federal healthcare funding for states concerning the specified individuals, potentially shifting the financial burden to the states or impacting the healthcare services available to these individuals.
Potential Benefits
- Increased public safety through enhanced monitoring and potential federal prosecution of sexually dangerous persons.
- Potential deterrence of sexually violent offenses due to stricter enforcement and potential federal charges.
- Improved information sharing between states and the federal government regarding sexually dangerous individuals.
- Reinforcement of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006.
- Addresses a specific and serious category of crime, potentially offering reassurance to communities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on federal resources due to increased review and prosecution efforts.
- Possible legal challenges related to the definition and determination of "sexually dangerous person."
- Potential for reduced access to healthcare for individuals who have been convicted of sexually violent offenses, even after serving their sentences.
- Increased financial burden on states if federal healthcare funding is limited.
- Risk of unintended consequences or disproportionate impact on certain populations.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on public safety and crime reduction aligns with the government's responsibility to "insure domestic Tranquility" as stated in the Preamble of the US Constitution. However, the limitations on healthcare funding for specified individuals could raise concerns related to due process and equal protection under the law, potentially conflicting with the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments. The expansion of reporting requirements under the Adam Walsh Act appears to be within the legislative power granted to Congress under Article I, Section 8, which includes the power to regulate interstate commerce and provide for the general welfare.
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).