N.J. bill bars sex offenders from youth leader roles

TRENTON - New Jersey lawmakers have approved a bill that would bar some sex offenders from coaching Little League, leading a Girl Scout troop or directing youth theater.

The state Assembly today approved a bill that would bar sex offenders convicted of violating minors from working for youth groups of any kind.

The measure does not apply to schools. Background checks and job restrictions on those employees and volunteers are covered by separate laws.

Under the bill, an offender who takes a paid or unpaid position in a group and the person who hired him would face prison time, fines or both.

The bill now goes to the Senate, which has passed a similar measure but must review changes made in the Assembly version.