ST. LOUIS — Registered sex offenders in Missouri will not have to put a “No candy or treats at this residence” sign on their homes on the night of Halloween. A federal judge ruled that the portion of the so-called Halloween Statute forcing sex offenders to put up such a sign constitutes compelled speech on private property and violates their First Amendment rights. The state law’s other restrictions, including requiring sex offenders to leave their outdoor lights off on Halloween evening, are sufficient to protect children.
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