Moore Republican Women

Jessica's Law North Carolina Has Been Signed Into Law by Governor Easley

RALEIGH—On July 17th, state legislators in the North Carolina House and North Carolina Senate voted overwhelmingly in support of the passage of "Jessica's Law." As of July July 28th the bill has been signed into law by Governor Easley. The bill increases penalties from sexual predators convicted of crimes against children. Under the new legislation, adult offenders convicted of specific sex crimes against children under the age of thirteen will be given mandatory sentences of at least 25 years and be monitored by satellite for life if released. The bill is named for Jessica Lunsford, a former Gaston County resident who was raped and buried alive by a repeat sex offender in Florida in 2005. She was only nine years old.

This is the quote from Valerie White, President of NCFRW:

At the close of the North Carolina short session, the North Carolina House and Senate voted overwhelmingly in support of the passage of Lunsford Act in the House and Senate, and the bill is on its way to the Governor's office for his signature.

The bill increases penalties for sexual predators convicted of crimes against children. Under the new legislation, adult offenders convicted of specific sex crimes against children under the age of thirteen will be given mandatory sentences of at least 25 years and be monitored by satellite for life if released.

The bill is named for Jessica Lunsford, a former Gaston County resident who was raped and buried alive by a repeat sex offender in Florida in 2005. She was only nine years old.

The NCFRW has been involved with this issue for three years because one NCFRW member spoke up to request that the NCFRW become involved in this important legislation in order to protect our children. Our members embraced this mission and began getting petitions and raising awareness in the communities. Since 2005 NCFRW raised awareness by speaking out, writing letters to the editor, and contacting legislators.

Our voices were heard!!

Our efforts made a significant difference up until the final day of passage. I cannot express my gratitude enough for the work that has been done by our members towards this effort.

Chairman Linda Daves, North Carolina Republican Party, made the following statement: "Yesterday, in North Carolina, we marked an important conservative victory. After a three-year grassroots effort by conservative activists, finally Jessica's Law has been given the hearing it deserved and passed overwhelmingly. Special recognition should be given to the North Carolina Federation of Republican Women who have led the charge to see this law passed and who refused to give up until the task was accomplished. Numerous hours, phone calls, letters, and petitions helped to make this possible and the dedication of these women and all those who dedicated themselves to the cause does not go unrecognized or unappreciated. Because of their hard work, we can be sure that our children will be safer from the unspeakable acts of repeat criminals. We can never forget how valuable the work can be of ordinary citizens dedicated to making our state a better place to live and raise a family."

As we move forward to the election, we will remember the strength of our voice and what we can accomplish. The North Carolina Federation of Republican Women are 'Women Making a Difference.'

Sincerely,
Valerie White
NCFRW President