New group to study sex offender laws

Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. has formed a new "working group" to study current laws and issues concerning sex offenders in Utah.

Member Michele Christiansen, executive director of the state's Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice, said she envisions the group discussing issues such as minimum mandatory sentences, the sex-offender registry and a proposal to require DNA testing for child sex offenders.

The group has met twice since it was formed about six weeks ago. It is made up of about 20 people and includes lawmakers and representatives from agencies involved in the criminal justice system, such as the Utah Department of Corrections, state Department of Human Services, the FBI and Adult Probation and Parole.

The group will make recommendations for legislation to be considered by the 2006 Legislature.

The governor has already formed at least three other such groups, which cover student achievement, the under-insured and minimum wage issues.