Kentucky law could make it a crime for sex offenders to hand out candy on Halloween

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – A proposed Kentucky law would prevent sex offenders from handing out candy or attending costume parties where children are present.

Representative Chad Aull of Lexington introduced a similar bill in the Kentucky General Assembly’s 2025 session, and announced his plan to reintroduce the legislation in the 2026 legislative session beginning in January. Violations of the law would be classified as a misdemeanor with repeat offenses being elevated to a felony.

“We want children to enjoy trick-or-treating knowing they’ll be safe,” Aull wrote in a release. “Halloween should be a time for laughter, family and community, not anxiety or danger.”

If approved, the restrictions would apply to Halloween activities within 14 days before or after October 31 each year.