NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A Tennessee lawmaker has introduced a bill that would allow sex offenders to go to church.

House Bill 1922 was proposed by Rep. Patsy Hazlewood (R – Signal Mountain). Under this bill, a registered sex offender can go to church for specific reasons, but they have to get permission first.

It says sex offenders can attend church for religious, educational or social purposes – providing they get approval from the pastor ahead of time.

It also says, a written letter of permission has to be given to the offender before they are allowed to attend services.

Right now, the bill is still in its early stages and hasn't yet been assigned to any committees.

If passed, the bill would go into law July 1.