Community notification refers to the distribution of information about released sex offenders to citizens and community organizations. The 32 States with some form of sex offender notification are organized into three basic categories: (1) those with broad community notification; (2) those with notification to organizations and individuals at risk; and (3) those with access to registration information. The authors point out that notification has been subject to challenges on constitutional grounds, most frequently based on the argument that notification represents an additional punishment. The analysis of State statutes indicates that notification is reserved for offenders assessed as high-risk and for those convicted of offenses against children. Approaches to and methods of notification vary by State, with typical methods being press releases, flyers, newspaper advertisements, and direct mailings. Notification usually includes name, description or photo, address or approximate address, description of crime, and age of victim. Some States use specific risk assessment instruments to determine an offender's risk of reoffending and whether an offender should be subject to notification. State organizations often develop rules and procedures for carrying out notification, and local organizations are generally responsible for the actual notification. States that maintain sex offender registries locate them within a State agency. 2 tables and 1 figure