Senate Bill No. 199, introduced by Senator Seabaugh, amends existing laws regarding prostitution offenses by imposing mandatory minimum sentences for repeat offenders. Specifically, for a second conviction of purchasing commercial sexual activity, the bill mandates imprisonment for a term of six months to two years, with at least six months served without the possibility of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence. Additionally, offenders may face fines ranging from $1,500 to $2,000. Similarly, for second and subsequent offenses of soliciting for prostitutes, the bill establishes a mandatory imprisonment term of six months to one year, also requiring at least six months to be served without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension, along with the same fine structure.

The bill retains the provision that one-half of the fines collected will be distributed according to existing law. These changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2026, and aim to strengthen penalties for repeat offenders in an effort to deter such criminal activities.

Statutes affected:
SB199 Original: 14:2(C)(2), 14:83(B)(1)