This bill aims to amend various sections of the Code of West Virginia related to human trafficking by significantly increasing the criminal penalties for trafficking offenses and establishing limitations on parole eligibility. Key changes include imposing a determinate sentence of not less than 15 years and up to 40 years for trafficking adults, and a minimum of 25 years up to 100 years for trafficking minors. Additionally, the bill introduces a provision that individuals convicted of offenses involving minor victims will not be eligible for parole. It also specifies that each victim constitutes a separate offense, and restitution must be ordered for victims, with provisions for enforcement and eligibility for the Crime Victims Compensation Fund.

Furthermore, the bill provides immunity from criminal liability for minors who are victims of sex trafficking, allowing them to be presumed victims in certain circumstances. It clarifies that minors charged with prostitution offenses may not be held criminally liable if they are determined to be victims of trafficking, while also ensuring that minors coerced into criminal behavior are recognized as abused children eligible for child welfare services. Overall, the bill seeks to strengthen protections for victims and enhance penalties for offenders involved in human trafficking.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-14-2, 61-14-3, 61-14-4, 61-14-5, 61-14-6, 61-14-7, 61-14-8