The bill amends various sections of the West Virginia Code to strengthen the legal framework addressing human trafficking and human smuggling. It introduces new definitions and criminal penalties for smuggling adults and minors, with offenders facing significant prison sentences. The legislation also increases penalties for forced labor and debt bondage, particularly concerning minors, and allows for civil asset forfeiture of vehicles or vessels used in these crimes. Additionally, it mandates restitution for victims and emphasizes the importance of victim support and compensation. Moreover, the bill creates an exemption for medical, mental health, and legal services provided to illegal aliens, ensuring that professionals in these fields are not penalized for their assistance. It outlines conditions for parole ineligibility for offenders and expands the definition of aggravating circumstances. The bill includes to enhance clarity and effectiveness while removing that may no longer be relevant. Set to take effect 90 days after passage, the bill has been certified by the Clerks of both the House of Delegates and the Senate and has received necessary approvals before being presented to the Governor for final approval.

Statutes affected:
Committee Substitute: 61-14-1, 61-14-2, 61-14-3, 61-14-4, 61-14-5, 61-14-6, 61-14-7, 61-14-8, 61-14-10
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 61-14-1, 61-14-2, 61-14-3, 61-14-4, 61-14-5, 61-14-6, 61-14-7, 61-14-8, 61-14-10
Introduced Version: 61-14-1, 61-14-2, 61-14-3, 61-14-4, 61-14-5, 61-14-6, 61-14-7, 61-14-8
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 61-14-1, 61-14-2, 61-14-3, 61-14-4, 61-14-5, 61-14-6, 61-14-7, 61-14-8, 61-14-10