Bill > HR4323

This bill provides a comprehensive legal framework to support victims of human trafficking by offering them relief from criminal convictions and arrests that resulted directly from their trafficking experience. Specifically, the bill allows individuals who were victims of trafficking to file motions to vacate convictions for certain non-violent ("level A") offenses and expunge arrest records if they can demonstrate that their criminal conduct was a direct result of being trafficked. The bill establishes a process where courts can consider evidence from anti-human trafficking service providers or clinicians to determine if a person was a trafficking victim, and if so, the court may vacate convictions, set aside verdicts, and expunge arrest records. Additionally, the bill introduces a "human trafficking defense" that allows defendants to establish duress by demonstrating they were trafficking victims at the time of the offense, and ensures that such proceedings can be kept confidential. The bill also mandates reporting requirements for United States attorneys and the Government Accountability Office to track the implementation and impact of these provisions, reflecting Congress's commitment to addressing the evolving tactics of human traffickers and protecting survivors. Importantly, individuals cannot be charged fees for filing these motions, and their ability to seek post-conviction relief is preserved even if they did not initially raise a trafficking defense.

Justice

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4323/all-info