A state lawmaker from Lexington plans to reintroduce legislation to make Halloween safer for children by preventing Kentucky sex offenders from participating in Halloween-related activities involving minors.
The proposal by Democratic Rep. Chad Aull would prevent sex offenders convicted of crimes against children from handing out candy to young trick-or-treaters or attending Halloween costume parties where children are present.
Aull filed a similar bill in the Kentucky General Assembly’s 2025 session.
“We want children to enjoy trick-or-treating, knowing they’ll be safe. Halloween should be a time for laughter, family, and community, not anxiety or danger,” Aull said. “Kentucky law already prevents registered sex offenders from living near schools or child care centers. This bill is another common-sense step that has worked well in other states.”
Aull’s proposal will be considered in the General Assembly’s 2026 legislative session, which starts Jan. 6. If approved, the restrictions would apply to Halloween activities within 14 days before or after Oct. 31 of each year.
Violating the proposed law would be a Class A misdemeanor, with repeat offenses elevated to a Class D felony.
In the upcoming legislative session, Aull also plans to sponsor legislation eliminating the statute of limitations for child sex abuse cases, which currently stands at 10 years after a survivor’s 18th birthday to ensure that survivors can seek justice on their own timeline.
“Justice delayed should never be justice denied, especially for survivors of childhood sexual abuse,” Aull said.
