Some states are trying to enforce new laws that are designed to guide Halloween-celebrating children away from homes where sex offenders live.
USA Today reports:
For Halloween this year, more convicted sex offenders must post signs telling trick-or-treaters to stay away or saying "No candy at this residence."
In Indiana, Maryland, Missouri and New Mexico, some registered sex offenders are required to hang such signs where they live. In Maryland, the sign is a bright orange pumpkin.
The signs are part of expanding efforts to regulate not only where convicted sex offenders live and work but also their movements on Halloween. Many states bar those on probation from giving out candy, wearing costumes or decorating their homes.
This week, a federal judge in Missouri struck down parts of a new state law. U.S. District Judge Carol E. Jackson said the law, enacted in June, was vague. She threw out language that bars sex offenders from "all Halloween-related contact with children," regardless of whether the child is related, and requires them to stay "inside the home" unless they have "just cause" to go out.
Jackson let stand provisions requiring them to turn off porch lights and post a sign stating, "No candy or treats at this residence."
In Las Vegas, budget cuts may prevent enforcement of the Halloween sex offender restrictions.
