This bill amends New Jersey's prostitution laws to upgrade the offense of engaging in prostitution as a patron from a disorderly persons offense to a crime of the fourth degree for first-time offenders, while maintaining the classification of a crime of the third degree for fourth or subsequent violations. The bill also introduces a mandatory assessment of $500 for those convicted of engaging in prostitution as a patron, which will be directed to the "Human Trafficking Survivor's Assistance Fund" (HTSAF). Additionally, it establishes a "Prostitution Offender Program" aimed at educating offenders about the implications of prostitution and its connection to human trafficking.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that all fines collected from convictions under this section will be forwarded to the Department of the Treasury for deposit into the HTSAF, which is dedicated to supporting services for victims of human trafficking and promoting awareness. The legislation reflects a strategic approach to combat human trafficking by targeting the demand side of prostitution, thereby aiming to reduce the exploitation of vulnerable individuals involved in sex trafficking.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:34-1.2