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 modifies the language regarding the allocation of funds from the surcharge, ensuring that half of the collected amount is directed towards services for sex-trafficking victims and the other half towards Internet crime enforcement. The bill also includes provisions for the collection and transmission of the surcharge by the circuit court clerk to the county treasurer, ensuring a structured process for fund management.

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