This bill makes several amendments to the General Laws regarding commercial sexual activity. It adds new legal language to various sections, including provisions for an affirmative defense for individuals forced into commercial sexual activity and protections for witnesses and victims who report certain offenses to law enforcement. The bill also specifies the offenses covered under this chapter, such as assault, fraud, kidnapping, and human trafficking.

Additionally, the bill prohibits the arrest, citation, or prosecution of individuals engaged in commercial sexual activity or practicing massage without a license if they were a witness or victim of certain criminal offenses and reported them to law enforcement in good faith and in a timely manner. The bill also establishes requirements for massage therapy licenses, including national criminal background checks and continuing education. It allows cities and towns to regulate body-works businesses but prohibits them from imposing additional qualifications beyond those set by the Department of Health.

Statutes affected:
892: 23-20.8-3