The bill amends Washington State's laws on human trafficking and sexual exploitation, specifically RCW 9A.40.100, by clarifying definitions and expanding the criteria for trafficking offenses. It establishes that individuals can be charged with trafficking in the first or second degree if they knowingly or recklessly cause a person under 18 to engage in sexually explicit or commercial sex acts, emphasizing that consent is not a defense in such cases. New definitions for terms like "coercion," "commercial sex act," and "sexually explicit act" are introduced, along with a fee structure for those convicted of trafficking, which allocates funds for victim services and local enforcement.

Additionally, the bill mandates a performance audit by the state auditor to ensure compliance with the fee assessment and usage, with a report due by December 31, 2025. It establishes a coordinating committee convened by the attorney general's office, comprising representatives from various sectors, including survivors of human trafficking and experts in youth services. This committee will oversee the implementation of the Washington state model protocol for addressing commercial sexual exploitation, collect and review data on exploitation incidents, and make policy recommendations to enhance the state's response, with provisions remaining in effect until June 30, 2030.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 9A.40.100
Substitute Bill: 9A.40.100