Assembly Bill 84 proposes the introduction of a $5,000 surcharge for individuals convicted of various prostitution-related offenses, including patronizing or soliciting prostitutes and soliciting minors for prostitution. The funds collected from this surcharge will be allocated to support treatment and services for victims of sex trafficking, as well as to enhance criminal investigative operations and law enforcement efforts related to Internet crimes against children. The bill amends existing statutes to incorporate these provisions and creates new sections to outline the specifics of the surcharge and its distribution.

In addition to establishing the surcharge, the bill amends current law to ensure that the funds are appropriately credited to specific appropriation accounts dedicated to victim services and Internet crime investigations. Notably, it deletes the requirement that certain funds be credited to a specific appropriation account, allowing for a more flexible allocation of resources. The bill aims to strengthen the state's response to both sex trafficking and Internet crimes against children by providing necessary funding for victim support and law enforcement initiatives.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 20.455(2)(hd), 20.455, 48.48(19), 48.48