The Human Trafficking Prevention Act aims to strengthen Ohio's legal framework against human trafficking by enhancing penalties for offenses related to minors and individuals with developmental disabilities. Key amendments include reclassifying certain kidnapping offenses from second-degree to first-degree felonies, establishing mandatory minimum sentences, and introducing indefinite prison terms of at least twenty-five years for trafficking in vulnerable populations. The bill also clarifies definitions related to human trafficking, specifying conditions under which individuals can be charged, and emphasizes the need for stricter penalties for crimes against at-risk individuals.

Furthermore, the bill revises sentencing guidelines for violent sex offenses, raising the minimum age for certain offenses from thirteen to eighteen years and mandating life imprisonment without parole for specific violent crimes. It establishes that offenders convicted of multiple offenses will serve their sentences consecutively and automatically classify certain offenders as tier III sex offenders. The legislation also allows for parole eligibility for those sentenced to life imprisonment without parole for offenses committed as minors, while repealing outdated sections related to human trafficking to ensure clarity in the law.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2903.41, 2905.01, 2905.02, 2905.32, 2971.03
As Reported By House Committee: 2903.41, 2905.01, 2905.02, 2905.32, 2971.03
As Passed By House: 2903.41, 2905.01, 2905.02, 2905.32, 2971.03