The bill amends the existing human trafficking statute in New Jersey to broaden the definition of the crime to include individuals who financially benefit from human trafficking activities, even if they are not directly involved as organizers, supervisors, financiers, or managers. Specifically, it introduces new language that states a person can be charged with human trafficking if they "receive anything of value from participation as an organizer, supervisor, financier or manager or benefits financially in a scheme or course of conduct which violates" the existing provisions. Additionally, the bill clarifies that individuals can be charged for knowingly engaging a child under 18 in sexual activity or labor, regardless of any mistaken belief about the child's age.

The bill maintains the serious penalties associated with human trafficking, categorizing it as a first-degree crime, which carries a minimum prison sentence of 20 years without parole eligibility. It also mandates restitution to victims based on the greater of the gross income derived from their labor or the value of their services as determined by various state and federal labor laws. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage, reflecting a strong legislative intent to combat human trafficking and provide justice for victims.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:13-8