03/20/2024
By Karen Mullins

The School of Criminology and Justice Studies is proud to announce a Dissertation Defense by Qurat Ann entitled, "The Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act: A Store of Policy Process and Implementation."

Friday, April 5
11:30 a.m.
HSSB Room 342

Committee:

  • Chair Andrew Harris, Ph.D.
  • Kimberly Kras, Ph.D.
  • Ryan Shields, Ph.D.
  • Kelly Socia, Ph.D.

Abstract

For several decades now, sex offender registration and notification (SORN) policies have existed at both the state and federal level, requiring individuals convicted of qualifying sexual offenses to register with local law enforcement. Research in this area has generally focused on the efficacy of these policies in reducing sexual violence as well as the consequences of SORN for registrants and the general public. Yet there remains an important gap in the literature regarding the development and implementation of these policies. The passage of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA) was deemed a watershed moment in the history of SORN policies, making it a prime candidate for an in-depth policy exploration. The current study addresses the gaps in the literature through a two-part analysis with the goal of understanding how SORNA came to be and how it was implemented on the ground. Through a qualitative examination of Congressional transcripts related to the development of SORNA, and frontline perspectives across ten states relevant to SORN implementation, this dissertation examines the predominant narratives and experiences at play during each stage of the policy process. Findings indicate that SORNA (and SORN policies) are developed through specific framing of problem narratives, which are coupled with policy solutions, and pushed forward through the advocacy efforts of policy makers and political entrepreneurs. These same policies are then brought to life on the ground by frontline personnel who make implementation decisions to deliver SORN to the public, while navigating the confines of their capacity, will, and their own sensemaking. Implications for policy, practice, and future research are discussed.