The proposed bill would amend existing statutes related to prostitution by introducing new definitions and penalties for individuals convicted of engaging in or soliciting sexual conduct for payment. Specifically, it would establish that knowingly offering to pay or agreeing to pay for sexual conduct constitutes a class 6 felony, with escalating penalties for repeat offenses, including mandatory jail time and the requirement to complete a court-ordered education or treatment program after multiple violations. Additionally, the bill would impose a $200 assessment on those convicted of such offenses, which would be directed to the Anti-Human Trafficking Grant Fund to support services for victims of sex trafficking.

Furthermore, the bill would enhance protections for victims of sex trafficking who are convicted of prostitution by allowing them to petition for the sealing of their records once their conviction is vacated. It specifies that these sealed records cannot be used in future legal proceedings or as prior convictions for sentencing enhancements. The bill also clarifies the process for collecting and transmitting the assessment funds to ensure they are used exclusively for victim services, thereby reinforcing the state's commitment to combating human trafficking.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 12-116.13, 13-3214, 41-1736
Senate Engrossed Version: 12-116.13, 13-909, 13-911, 13-3214, 41-1736, 13-1307, 13-3212, 13-703, 13-707, 28-1381, 28-1382, 13-1506, 13-1507, 13-1508, 13-1802, 13-1819, 13-3623, 13-1204, 5-395.01, 5-396, 5-397, 13-1814, 28-1383, 28-8282, 28-8284, 28-8286, 28-8287, 28-8288, 13-3707, 8-501, 12-558.03, 13-4414, 13-105, 13-705, 13-706, 41-1758.03, 41-1758.07, 41-619.55, 13-719