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DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - Approximately 100 registered sex offenders from across the country gathered for a conference at the Magnolia Hotel in Dallas.

It's an annual conference but the first time it's been open to media.  In fact, organizers warned attendees our news camera might be there.  They say they want people to know they're advocating for change.

17 years after his arrest for trying to meet up with a fictitious 14 year old, a registered sex offender from Florida says he can't shake his past.

"I've been interviewed for many, many, many jobs for my professional skills and when you disclose that part, you just never get a phone call again," he said.

A website for the event even provides contact information for the Dallas Police Department so those who need to check in can meet their registration requirements. Advocates argue residency restrictions and other mandates on sex offenders are not effective.

"The majority of children who are abused are abused in their homes, or abused by someone known to their family. they're not abused in playgrounds, parks, and school bus stops," says advocate, Gail Colleta.

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