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 they were forced into commercial sexual activity under certain circumstances, provided the immunity outlined in Section 11-34.1-15(a) is not applicable.
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, as long as they promptly report it to law enforcement in good faith or assist in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. This immunity applies if the crime occurred at or around the time of, and was related to, the conduct prohibited by the sections of the general laws cited. The definition of "victim" is clarified to include individuals 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: 278: 11-34.1-2
278 SUB A: 11-34.1-2