Senate Bill 849 aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding civil actions for victims of human trafficking and child trafficking in Wisconsin. The bill allows victims of child trafficking to initiate a civil action regardless of whether the perpetrator has been prosecuted or convicted, and it establishes that such actions must be commenced before the victim reaches the age of 35. Additionally, the bill renumbers and amends existing statutes related to civil actions for injuries resulting from violations of trafficking laws, specifically renumbering sections 940.302 (3) and 948.051 (3) to 895.439 (1) and 895.439 (2), respectively.

The bill also introduces new titles and provisions, including the creation of section 893.586, which specifies the time limitation for bringing actions related to child trafficking. It clarifies that victims can seek punitive damages in addition to actual damages, with the potential for awards not exceeding three times the actual damages incurred. Overall, the legislation aims to provide greater legal recourse for victims of trafficking, ensuring they have the opportunity to seek justice and compensation for their suffering.