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 third-degree classification 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.

The legislation emphasizes the importance of reducing demand for prostitution, which is often linked to human trafficking, by imposing stricter penalties on those who purchase sexual services. All fines collected from these offenses will be allocated to the HTSAF, which is dedicated to supporting victims of human trafficking and promoting awareness and educational initiatives related to this issue. The bill aims to enhance the state's efforts in combating human trafficking by targeting those who contribute to the demand for such exploitation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:34-1.2