This bill introduces a mandatory $500 fine for individuals convicted of engaging in prostitution as patrons, which is to be paid in addition to any other penalties. The funds collected from these fines will be forwarded to the Department of Justice to support the New Hampshire human trafficking collaborative task force. Additionally, the bill raises the penalty for paying, agreeing to pay, or offering to pay another person for sexual contact or penetration from a misdemeanor to a class A misdemeanor.

The bill amends existing law by inserting new provisions that establish these fines and penalties. Specifically, it adds a new paragraph to RSA 645:2 that mandates the $500 fine and stipulates that it cannot be reduced or suspended, while allowing for deferred or periodic payments if the defendant is unable to pay immediately. Furthermore, it repeals the previous misdemeanor classification for such payments, thereby enhancing the legal consequences for patrons of prostitution. The effective date for these changes is set for January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 645:2
As Amended by the Senate: 645:2
As Amended by the House: 645:2
Version adopted by both bodies: 645:2
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 645:2