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.

To implement these changes, the bill amends RSA 645:2 by adding new paragraphs that specify the fines and penalties. Specifically, it inserts a new paragraph (X) that mandates the $500 fine and stipulates that it cannot be reduced or suspended, while also allowing for deferred or periodic payments if the defendant is unable to pay immediately. Furthermore, the bill repeals the existing misdemeanor classification for such payments (RSA 645:2, I(f)) and includes a new paragraph (I-a) that classifies the act of paying for sexual contact or penetration as a class A misdemeanor. The bill is set to take effect on 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