State Senator Janae Shamp (R-AZ) is marking a significant win after a federal court upheld the state's sex offender registration laws, validating years of legislative work she has led on child protection issues.
Shamp has made strengthening oversight of convicted sex offenders a cornerstone of her time in office. Over the past two years alone, she has passed four bills aimed at changing restrictions and closing legal loopholes that previously allowed certain offenders to avoid public registration.
All four bills were signed into law, fundamentally changing how Arizona tracks and monitors individuals convicted of crimes against children.
The recent court case centered on an individual convicted of attempted sexual conduct with a minor, two counts of sexual abuse, and public sexual indecency. This person challenged Arizona's registration requirements, but the judge ruled that they must follow all current laws, including remaining on the public registry.
Arizona’s Changes
For Shamp, the ruling represents validation of her legislative strategy. "Predators do not deserve comfort; they deserve consequences," she said. "If you sexually abuse a child in Arizona, your anonymity is gone, your oversight is permanent, and your accountability is non-negotiable."
The senator's efforts have resulted in changes to Arizona's sex offender registry. More than 6,800 individuals convicted of crimes against children are now listed publicly who weren't required to register before Shamp's bills became law.
Throughout her legislative work, Shamp has partnered with victims' advocates, including Kayleigh Kozak, who has worked alongside the senator for four years. Kozak praised their collaborative approach to pushing for accountability and transparency in the system.
Looking ahead, Shamp made clear she has no plans to ease up on this issue. "This victory is only the beginning," she stated, pledging to continue finding legislative solutions.
The court's decision gives Shamp political momentum as she continues to position herself as a leading voice on child safety issues in the Arizona Legislature.
Her track record of passing legislation and successfully defending it in court has established her as a key figure in shaping the state's approach to sex offender management.
