Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB971

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/24
• Refer: 1/18/24
• Report Pass: 2/7/24
• Refer: 2/7/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Human trafficking of adults at risk for the purpose of commercial sex acts and providing a penalty.

Impact

If passed, AB971 will have a considerable impact on state laws regarding human trafficking. It would create a new classification of crime, enhancing penalties for those who exploit adults at risk. This could lead to an increase in law enforcement actions against traffickers and a greater emphasis on victim support services. In doing so, the bill aims to strengthen victim protections and hold perpetrators accountable, signaling a legislative shift towards prioritizing the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable adults.

Summary

Assembly Bill 971 addresses the issue of human trafficking specifically aimed at adults deemed 'at risk' for engaging in commercial sex acts. The bill proposes to increase the felony classification from a Class D to a Class C felony for trafficking an adult at risk. This is defined as an adult who has physical or mental impairments that hinder their ability to care for themselves, leading them to be vulnerable to abuse or exploitation. The proposed changes signify a more stringent punishment for traffickers and extend protections to a particularly vulnerable segment of the population.

Contention

There may be contention surrounding the implementation of this bill, particularly regarding the definitions established within it and its implications for law enforcement and support services. Stakeholders may express concerns about the adequacy of resources allocated for victim assistance and how the legal system will enforce these new classifications. Additionally, discussions may arise over the balance between sustaining prosecutorial power and ensuring the rights and protections of vulnerable individuals are upheld. Such discussions could lead to ongoing debates about the effectiveness of harsher penalties versus rehabilitative approaches in addressing human trafficking.