The bill amends section 462g of the Michigan penal code to clarify the requirements for victim testimony in human trafficking prosecutions. It establishes that a victim's testimony is not mandatory, and if a victim does choose to testify, their testimony does not need to be corroborated. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions regarding expert testimony, allowing witnesses with specialized knowledge in areas related to human trafficking to be qualified as experts in court. These experts can provide insights into victim responses and behaviors, although their opinions on the credibility of other witnesses, including the victim, are not admissible.

Furthermore, the bill removes previous language that allowed expert testimony regarding the behavioral patterns of human trafficking victims to be admissible in court. It also ensures that victims or complainants cannot be excused from testifying on the grounds that their testimony may incriminate them. Importantly, any truthful testimony or evidence provided by a victim cannot be used against them in a criminal case, except in specific circumstances such as impeachment or perjury.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 750.462