The bill amends Section 725.1 of the Iowa Code to enhance penalties related to prostitution, specifically concerning individuals who engage with minors. It establishes that a person commits a class D felony if they purchase or offer to purchase services as a partner in a sex act from someone who is under the age of eighteen or who is reasonably believed to be under that age. This includes situations where a law enforcement officer or agent is posing as a minor.

Under current law, the penalty for purchasing services from a minor is already classified as a class D felony. The bill expands this definition to include those who may mistakenly believe they are engaging with a minor, thereby increasing the scope of accountability. A class D felony carries a potential punishment of up to five years of confinement and fines ranging from $1,025 to $10,245.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 725.1