The bill amends Section 11-34.1-2 of the General Laws regarding "Commercial Sexual Activity," specifically addressing the offense of prostitution. It establishes that a person is guilty of prostitution if they engage in sexual conduct for a fee. The bill introduces an affirmative defense for individuals accused of prostitution if they can demonstrate that they were forced into commercial sexual activity under specific circumstances.

Additionally, the bill adds a new section, 11-34.1-15, which provides immunity from citation, arrest, or prosecution for individuals who witness or are victims of a crime related to prostitution, provided they report it to law enforcement in good faith. This immunity applies if the crime occurred in connection with the conduct prohibited by the sections of the law cited above. The definition of "victim" is clarified to include those who have sustained personal injury or loss of property directly attributable to the criminal conduct of another person. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5358: 11-34.1-2
5358  SUB A: 11-34.1-2
5358  SUB A as amended: 11-34.1-2