This bill aims to enhance public safety by amending the definitions and penalties associated with labor trafficking in Minnesota. It introduces new definitions for terms such as "debt bondage," "forced or coerced labor," and "psychological harm," while also establishing enhanced penalties for labor trafficking offenses that occur over an extended period or result in the death or great bodily harm of a victim. The bill mandates that the Sentencing Guidelines Commission consider assigning a severity level ranking to labor trafficking crimes, thereby ensuring that such offenses are treated with the seriousness they warrant. Additionally, it repeals a previous definition related to blackmail and makes conforming changes to various sections of Minnesota Statutes.

The bill also emphasizes public awareness initiatives regarding the risks of trafficking, common recruitment techniques, and the rights of crime victims. It specifies that labor trafficking resulting in death can lead to a sentence of up to 25 years, while trafficking involving minors or extended periods can result in a sentence of up to 20 years. The effective date for these changes is set for August 1, 2023, applying to crimes committed on or after that date. Overall, the bill seeks to strengthen the legal framework surrounding labor trafficking and improve protections for victims.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.281, 299A.78, 299A.79, 609.282
1st Engrossment: 609.281, 299A.78, 299A.79, 609.282, 609.321, 609.322, 609.325
1st Engrossment: 609.281, 299A.78, 299A.79, 609.282, 609.321, 609.322, 609.325