Missouri Judge Strikes Down Halloween Sign Law for Sex Offenders

The court ruled the requirement violated the First Amendment, ending a 16-year-old mandate.

U.S. District Judge John Ross ruled that Missouri's 2008 law requiring sex offenders to post 'No candy or treats' signs on Halloween violated their First Amendment rights.
The ruling allows other provisions of the law to remain, such as curfews and keeping outdoor lights off during Halloween night.
The decision follows similar legal challenges in other states, where courts have also found such sign requirements unconstitutional.
The lawsuit was filed by Thomas L. Sanderson, arrested in 2022 for not displaying the sign, despite his conviction predating the law.
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey plans to appeal, emphasizing the state's duty to protect children.