House Bill No. 280 seeks to strengthen protections for victims of human trafficking and prostitution offenses in Louisiana by amending existing laws. The bill introduces an affirmative defense for victims of trafficking against prosecution for offenses such as prostitution and soliciting for prostitutes. It specifically states that any child involved in prostitution-related offenses is presumed to be a victim of human trafficking, exempting them from criminal responsibility and delinquency proceedings. Additionally, the legislation mandates that all victims, including those over eighteen, be informed about available specialized services for human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

The bill also revises terminology related to prostitution involving minors and expands the definitions of "delinquent act" and "felony-grade delinquent act" to include trafficking-related offenses. It modifies the process for informal adjustment agreements for children who commit unlawful acts as a result of being victims of human trafficking, allowing district attorneys to offer specialized services if the children are willing to cooperate. Furthermore, the bill adds victim advocacy services to the list of specialized services available to victims, aiming to create a more supportive legal framework that recognizes victims' needs and rights.

Statutes affected:
HB321 Original: 14:2(F)(1), 14:3(E), 14:82(G), 14:1(A), 14:2(E), 14:83(C), 14:3(D), 14:4(C), 14:89(C)(2), 14:2(D)(1)
HB321 Engrossed: 14:2(F)(1), 14:3(E), 14:82(G), 14:1(A), 14:2(E), 14:83(C), 14:3(D), 14:4(C), 14:89(C)(2), 14:2(D)(1)