YARMOUTH, Maine - Residents in the Maine town of Yarmouth are set to vote next month on a proposed ordinance that would limit where sex offenders can live.
The Portland Press Herald reports that the ordinance would prevent registered sex offenders convicted of felony crimes against anyone younger than 14 from living within 750 feet of elementary, middle or secondary schools.
Offenders who established residency near a school prior to the ordinance would be exempt.
Town councilors voted to put the issue on the November ballot after receiving more than 750 signatures in favor of a vote.
Proponents of the ordinance say the restrictions will keep students safe, while opponents say there's no proof that limiting where sex offenders live makes children safer.
A handful of Maine communities have enacted similar ordinances.