The proposed bill seeks to enhance the legal framework addressing human trafficking and sexual exploitation of children in New Mexico. It removes the time limitation for prosecuting human trafficking offenses, allowing for prosecution at any time after the crime occurs. The bill raises the age for sexual exploitation of children by prostitution from sixteen to eighteen years and expands the definition of human trafficking to encompass various forms of coercion and exploitation. It also classifies human trafficking as a "racketeering" offense, prohibits certain defenses in prosecutions, and ensures that victims are not charged as accessories to the crime. Additionally, the bill amends the Victims of Crime Act to include protections for victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

Furthermore, the legislation introduces provisions regarding meritorious deductions for prisoners, allowing for lump-sum awards with specific eligibility criteria. It specifies that individuals convicted of human trafficking are ineligible for these deductions and outlines the conditions under which prisoners can earn deductions based on their conduct and program participation. The bill also ensures that prisoners in private correctional facilities are treated similarly to those in state-run facilities regarding meritorious deductions and allows for earned deductions for parolees who comply with parole conditions. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the legal response to human trafficking and protect victims while holding offenders accountable.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 30-1-8, 30-6A-4, 30-42-3, 30-52-1, 31-26-3, 33-2-34