Assemblymember Marty Block (AD-78)  issued the following statement today after Governor Schwarzenegger signed Chelsea’s Law, AB 1844, to better protect children from violent sexual predators:

“With this new law we begin to better protect our children and address some of the tremendous pitfalls plaguing our public safety system, which is great news for all Californians. Ensuring that our communities and children are safe is a core government responsibility and with Chelsea’s Law, we are strengthening our policies to protect our children from the threat of violent sexual predators. This legislation takes a smart, targeted approach with a one-strike provision, where we lock away these criminals and throw away the key to prevent repeat offenses and keep our communities safer.

“These reform efforts stem from a terrible tragedy that bonded the San Diego community together to find bold, new solutions that would prevent other communities and families from experiencing this kind of horrific loss. Through the work of a bipartisan coaltion of lawmakers, public safety officials, community members and the courage of Chelsea’s parents, emerged a stronger and more effective policy to protect children from the most dangerous sex offenders.

“This process serves as an example for all of us when confronting some of our most difficult challenges. Assemblymember Nathan Fletcher has been a leader in making this legislation a reality. I applaud him for his dedication and I thank the Governor for signing this incredibly important public safety legislation.”

Contact: Mike Naple (916) 202-0003