Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF741

Introduced
3/5/25  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to human trafficking including law enforcement intervention and victims, and making penalties applicable.

Impact

The amendments propose an updated definition of 'victim' to encompass not only those directly subjected to trafficking but also those identified as vulnerable to such crimes. By broadening the scope, the bill recognizes the complexities involved in human trafficking cases, allowing for greater protection and support for victims. The intent behind these changes is to create a more robust system for recognizing and intervening in trafficking cases, which is crucial for effective prosecution and victim advocacy.

Summary

House File 741 aims to strengthen laws regarding human trafficking in Iowa by amending definitions related to the crime and specifying the penalties associated with it. The bill defines human trafficking as knowingly purchasing or attempting to purchase commercial sexual services from a victim, a person engaged in trafficking, or a law enforcement officer posing as one. This legal framework is intended to enhance law enforcement's ability to address and penalize those involved in human trafficking activities effectively.

Contention

Debates surrounding HF741 may involve discussions on the implications of expanding the definition of human trafficking and victims. Critics might argue that the broader definitions could lead to overreach or misidentification in legal proceedings. There's also potential contention regarding the enforcement of penalties, which range from a class D felony to a class A felony depending on the nature of the offense. This spectrum of penalties may spark discussions about the proportionality and effectiveness of such sanctions in deterring human trafficking.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA HSB196

A bill for an act relating to human trafficking and providing penalties.

IA SF2170

A bill for an act relating to human trafficking including parole and work release and victim counselors, and guardian ad litem appointments for prosecuting witnesses with mental disabilities.(Formerly SSB 3027.)

IA HF406

A bill for an act relating to human trafficking and providing penalties.(See HF 630.)

IA HSB530

A bill for an act relating to human trafficking including parole and work release and victim counselors, and guardian ad litem appointments for prosecuting witnesses with mental disabilities.(See HF 2460.)

IA SSB3027

A bill for an act relating to human trafficking including parole and work release and victim counselors, and guardian ad litem appointments for prosecuting witnesses with mental disabilities.(See SF 2170.)

IA HF2460

A bill for an act relating to human trafficking including parole and work release and victim counselors, and guardian ad litem appointments for prosecuting witnesses with mental disabilities. (Formerly HSB 530.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.

IA HF630

A bill for an act relating to human trafficking and providing penalties. (Formerly HF 406.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

IA HSB746

A bill for an act relating to human trafficking, including civil statutes of limitations, an annual stakeholder meeting and report, depositions of victims, restitution, restorative facilities and protective services, and investigation and prosecution, and making appropriations.

IA HF651

A bill for an act relating to the ownership of dogs, making penalties applicable, and including effective date and applicability provisions. (Formerly HSB 152.)

IA HF2475

A bill for an act relating to victim restitution and the rights of human trafficking victims.

Similar Bills

CA SB35

Human trafficking: California ACTS Task Force.

CA AB2020

Survivors of Human Trafficking Support Act.

HI HB609

Relating To Sex Trafficking.

CA AB1735

Evidence: privileges: human trafficking caseworker-victim privilege.

NJ A4306

Requires Attorney General to establish Human Trafficking Unit in Department of Law and Public Safety.

CA AB2843

Regional Task Forces Against Human Trafficking Grant Program.

HI HB867

Relating To Sex Trafficking Prevention.

HI HB867

Relating To Sex Trafficking Prevention.