This bill amends the Michigan Penal Code to modernize and strengthen the legal framework surrounding offenses related to minors, racketeering, and commercial sexual activity. A significant change is the increase of the age of consent for taking or enticing away a minor from 16 to 18 years. The bill also redefines terms related to sexual offenses, replacing "prostitution" with "commercial sexual activity" and expanding the definition of racketeering to include offenses related to child sexually abusive activity. Additionally, it modifies the definition of a disorderly person to encompass individuals engaged in commercial sexual activity and introduces new definitions for terms such as "cryptocurrency" and "financial transaction."

Furthermore, the bill establishes stricter penalties for offenses related to commercial sexual activity, particularly when minors are involved, and removes the age restriction for individuals engaged in these offenses. It mandates law enforcement to report suspected human trafficking cases involving minors and requires prompt investigations by the Department of Health and Human Services. The legislation also allows for probation and counseling as alternatives to traditional sentencing for individuals coerced into illegal activities due to human trafficking. Overall, the bill aims to enhance protections for victims and impose harsher penalties on offenders, reflecting a significant shift in addressing commercial sexual activities and human trafficking in Michigan.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 750.13, 750.449