Assemblywoman Gunther (D-Forestburgh) announced that the Legislature and governor have reached agreement on civil commitment legislation to keep the most dangerous sexual predators off the streets even after they finish their prison terms, and establish new, tougher sentences for persons convicted of sex crimes.

“Civil commitment is imperative to keeping our children safe,” Gunther said. “As a grandmother, I know sexual predators pose a real threat to the safety of our children and studies show that many offenders will repeat their crimes.”

Under this bipartisan agreement, the worst sex offenders will be confined until it’s determined that they are no longer dangerous – meaning there is a strong chance that many will spend the rest of their lives behind bars. The agreement goes even further to include stronger sentences, strict supervision and treatment, and cracks down on sexual predators who lure children in person and on the internet.

“With real leadership, we were able to put the safety of our families above partisan politics,” Gunther said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Legislature and the governor to do even more for our families.”