Safe Shelters for Survivors Act of 2026

This bill prohibits certain sex offenders from entering or using services at domestic violence and homeless shelters that receive federal funds, and imposes penalties for violations.

Sec. 2, Limitation on the use of domestic violence and homeless shelters for sex offenders: Covered shelters (domestic violence or homeless shelters receiving federal funds) may not provide any service or shelter to a covered sex offender (someone required to register on the National Sex Offender Registry). A shelter that fails to comply loses eligibility for federal funds the following fiscal year. Covered sex offenders may not enter or use services of covered shelters, except to seek information on non-covered shelters. If they enter, they must immediately notify shelter operators of their registry status. Operators may then inform them of non-covered shelters and the prohibition. Violating these rules knowingly in interstate commerce carries a fine, up to 5 years imprisonment, or both. This subsection takes effect 180 days after enactment. The bill defines key terms including covered sex offender, covered shelter, National Sex Offender Registry, sex offender, non-covered shelter, homeless shelter, and homeless.