Bill > HB1485

This bill establishes new legal provisions targeting property managers and owners of locations where massage parlors or similar establishments are involved in prostitution-related criminal activities. Specifically, if law enforcement executes a warrant and finds evidence of commercial sexual exploitation, sex trafficking, or promoting prostitution, the property manager and owner can be charged with complicity. If compelling evidence of their involvement or inaction is presented, they can be fined $100,000 in addition to any other penalties. Importantly, the bill mandates that workers or individuals involved in these establishments be treated as potential victims, with resources provided to help them understand their situation and potentially reunite with family if they have been trafficked. The bill also includes an appropriation of funds (specific amounts not specified in the text) to be distributed among Hawaii's counties for enforcement purposes, with the funds to be used for implementing the Act. The legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and does not retroactively affect rights, penalties, or proceedings that occurred before its effective date.

Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1485&year=2026