Bill > H1683

This bill seeks to strengthen support for survivors of the sex trade by making several key legal and definitional changes. First, it introduces a comprehensive definition of a "prostituted person" that includes victims of sexual servitude, sex trafficking, and those engaging in commercial sex work under various circumstances, moving away from language that might blame the victim. The bill modifies several sections of Massachusetts law to expand protections for these individuals, including allowing for the vacatur (removal) of criminal records for offenses committed as a result of being a trafficking victim. Specifically, it creates a process where individuals can submit an affidavit explaining how their criminal offense was related to their trafficking experience, with a potential presumption in their favor if prosecutors do not respond. The bill also mandates that any funds used in prostitution-related offenses (not used for victim restitution) be allocated to the Victims of Human Trafficking Trust Fund. Additionally, the legislation establishes a special commission composed of government agencies, nonprofits, and other stakeholders to comprehensively review existing services for prostituted persons, develop recommendations for support, create prevention strategies, and suggest ways to improve exit programming for survivors. The commission is required to submit a detailed report within 18 months, focusing on holistic support including housing, healthcare, education, job training, legal assistance, and victim compensation.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1683