This bill amends Louisiana law to strengthen protections for minors who are victims of human trafficking and prostitution offenses. It establishes that any child engaged in prostitution-related offenses is presumed to be a victim of human trafficking, exempting them from criminal responsibility and delinquency proceedings. The legislation also introduces affirmative defenses for individuals charged with related offenses if they are recognized as victims of human trafficking, ensuring they are directed to specialized services designed for such victims. Additionally, the bill revises terminology and clarifies definitions and penalties associated with prostitution involving minors, emphasizing the eligibility of trafficking victims for specialized services and treatment.

Moreover, the bill clarifies that classifications of "delinquent acts" and "felony-grade delinquent acts" do not apply to children who were victims of trafficking at the time of the offense. It allows for informal adjustment agreements for first-time offenders who are victims of human trafficking, contingent upon their willingness to cooperate and access specialized services. These services may include safe housing, victim advocacy, mental health support, and educational training, thereby creating a comprehensive framework to assist vulnerable children affected by trafficking.

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)
HB321 Enrolled: 14:2(F)(1), 14:3(A)(1), 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 Act 637: 14:2(F)(1), 14:3(A)(1), 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)