DECATUR, Ill. – A bill introduced by state Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, that prohibits child sex offenders from being employed at carnivals or fairs was recently signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker.
“Carnivals and fairs are family affairs that parents should feel good about taking their children to. Sex offenders have no place at these child-centered events,” Scherer said. “I sponsored this legislation because I care deeply about the safety of our state’s children and I will do everything I can to protect them.”
Senate Bill 3019 prohibits child sex offenders from being employed or associated with any carnival, amusement enterprise or state or county fair when persons under 18 are present. In 2021, a convicted sex offender was discovered working at a children’s ride at the Illinois State Fair, which was allowed because of a gap in existing law. Scherer’s legislation closes that gap to ensure a similar situation does not happen in the future.
“State and county fairs are a time for communities to come together and celebrate. This new law makes sure that everyone can enjoy the fair safely,” said Scherer. “This new law reaffirms our commitment to child safety and improving the lives of youth across Illinois.”
For more information on this legislation, please visit www.ilga.gov. Scherer represents areas of Sangamon, Macon and Christian counties. For more information, please contact her full time constituent service office at 217-877-9636 or staterepsue@gmail.com.
Rep. Sue Scherer
(D-Decatur)
96th District
Springfield Office:
E-2 Stratton Office Building
Springfield, IL 62706
(217) 524-0353
(217) 524-0354 FAX
District Office:
1301 E. Mound Rd.
Suite 270
Decatur, IL 62526
(217) 877-9636
(217) 877-9659 FAX