Assembly Bill 861 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. Additionally, it establishes that victims may commence these actions any time before they reach the age of 35. The bill also renumbers and amends existing statutes related to civil actions for injuries resulting from violations of trafficking laws.

Key changes in the bill include the creation of new statutory titles and provisions, specifically under sections 893.586 and 895.439, which outline the limitations and conditions for bringing civil actions related to trafficking. The bill renumbers existing statutes, with section 940.302 (3) being renumbered to 895.439 (1) and section 948.051 (3) to 895.439 (2). The amendments clarify that victims can seek punitive damages in addition to actual damages, with the potential for awards not exceeding three times the actual damages incurred, along with reasonable attorney fees.