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Alabama lawmakers pass bill to chemically castrate some child molesters

Posted at 11:01 AM, Jun 05, 2019
and last updated 2019-06-05 13:01:59-04

ALABAMA (CNN) – A new bill passed by the Alabama legislature would require some sex offenders to begin chemical castration treatment at least a month ahead of release from custody.

The bill also states sex offenders, who have been convicted of abusing a child under the age of 13,  would have to continue treatment until the court determines the treatment is no longer necessary. Offenders must pay for the treatment as a condition of parole, but they could be denied parole solely based on an inability to pay.

The bill defines chemical castration as “the receiving of medication, including, but not limited to, medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment or its chemical equivalent, that, among other things, reduces, inhibits, or blocks the production of testosterone, hormones, or other chemicals in a person’s body.”

If an offender chooses not to continue receiving the treatment, they will be in violation of parole and forced to go back into custody.

The use of chemical castration has been controversial internationally. Some states have versions of chemical castration in their laws.

The bill now heads to Gov. Kay Ivey’s desk for her signature.