livingston
20×102mm Vulcan
State Board Drops ‘Sex Offender’ Term Calling It A Negative Label
DENVER (CBS4)– The way sex offenders are labeled is changing in Colorado. The board that sets state standards voted today to change the term “sex offenders” to reflect so-called “person-first” language.
The Sex Offender Management Board, which is made up of everyone from public defenders to prosecutors, sets standards and guidelines for treatment providers so the new terminology will only be used in that context. It doesn’t change the term sex offender in law or the criminal justice system but some worry it’s a step in that direction.
Supports of the change in terminology argue it will reduce recidivism. Opponents say it will only reduce accountability, noting victims and survivors live with their label for life.
In the end, the board voted 10-6 to go with “adults who commit sexual offenses.”
“I think this strikes a balance that honors the impact to victims and recognizes the current and ongoing impacts of sexual assault but also avoids the labeling term that has negative impacts on those who commit sex offenses.”
Colorado State Board Drops 'Sex Offender' Term Calling It A Negative Label
The way sex offenders are labeled is changing in Colorado. The board that sets state standards voted today to change the term "sex offenders" to reflect so-called "person-first" language.
denver.cbslocal.com