The bill, H.B. No. 5547, aims to enhance the prosecution and punishment for offenses related to the trafficking of persons, particularly focusing on children and disabled individuals. It amends Section 20A.02 of the Penal Code to clarify that a person commits an offense if they traffic a child or disabled individual with the intent for them to engage in forced labor or services, regardless of whether the trafficker knows the victim's age or disability status. Additionally, the bill specifies that receiving benefits from such trafficking activities is also an offense, and it expands the list of prohibited conduct that can result from trafficking, including various forms of sexual exploitation.

Furthermore, the bill increases the severity of penalties for trafficking offenses. It redefines certain offenses as felonies of the first degree, particularly when they involve children or disabled individuals, and establishes harsher penalties if the offense occurs near schools or other designated facilities. The bill also includes provisions for the trial of defendants charged with these offenses, ensuring that specific trafficking-related charges are treated with the utmost seriousness. The changes in law will apply only to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()