The proposed legislation, known as Westons Law, seeks to enhance the legal framework surrounding human trafficking, particularly concerning minors. It expands the definition of human trafficking to include the recruitment or coercion of juveniles into gang or drug trafficking activities, classifying such actions as a first-degree crime. The bill introduces harsher penalties, including a mandatory minimum prison term of 20 years without parole eligibility for certain offenses. Additionally, it clarifies that human trafficking of a minor includes using a minor to commit crimes, participate in criminal street gangs, or engage in drug distribution, while also introducing new prohibited methods of coercion, such as stalking and sexual extortion.

Moreover, Westons Law amends existing statutes related to juvenile delinquency, allowing for the waiver of jurisdiction to adult courts for juveniles involved in serious offenses, including human trafficking. The court must consider various factors, such as the juvenile's age and prior delinquency history, when deciding on jurisdiction waivers. The bill also modifies the civil damages provision of the State RICO law to allow victims of human trafficking to seek triple damages in civil suits against those convicted of racketeering. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen legal measures against human trafficking and related crimes involving juveniles, enhancing both prevention and prosecution efforts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:4A-26.1, 2C:13-8, 2C:33-29