New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB1137

Introduced

11/28/23

Refer

11/28/23

Report DNP

2/1/24

Caption

Relative to trafficking offences and special restitution for human trafficking victims

Impact

The introduction of HB 1137 signifies a substantial change to state laws regarding human trafficking and victim restitution. It amends RSA 633:7 by adding new provisions related to the sharing of images that could further exploit victims. Additionally, it lays out detailed parameters for restitution which can include compensation for medical treatment, relocation expenses, and other economic losses suffered by the victims. This legislative measure underscores the state's commitment to supporting rehabilitation and recovery for human trafficking survivors.

Summary

House Bill 1137 is a pivotal piece of legislation aimed at addressing human trafficking offenses by mandating special restitution for victims. This bill not only emphasizes the need for financial compensation for victims but also expands the legal definition of trafficking to include actions involving the sharing of digital or other images of trafficked individuals. It intends to enhance the protections afforded to victims and ensure that offenders bear the financial responsibility for the harm caused.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around HB 1137 appears to be supportive, with many recognizing the importance of strengthening legal frameworks to protect vulnerable individuals. Advocates for victims' rights laud the bill for recognizing the multifaceted needs of trafficking survivors, including the need for financial and psychological support. However, discussions may also highlight differing opinions on the practicality of implementing such restitution requirements and the potential burdens on judicial processes.

Contention

One area of contention may stem from the bill's fiscal implications, as it mandates restitution that could impact state and local budgets. The provisions might also lead to debates over the effectiveness and enforcement of restitution orders. Critics could argue that placing a restitution mandate on offenders may complicate legal proceedings or could result in difficulties in ensuring compliance. The tension between affording victims justice through restitution while navigating the existing legal and financial frameworks may be a significant point of discussion moving forward.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH SB248

Relative to bail for a defendant.

NH SB252

Relative to release of a defendant pending trial.

NH HB593

Relative to the forfeiture of assets in connection with a drug offense.

NH HB650

Relative to prohibiting suspension of driver's licenses due to nonpayment of fines or fees.

NH HB455

Relative to creating a new state cause of action and special findings for abused, neglected, and abandoned children seeking special immigrant juvenile status under federal law.

NH HB107

Relative to employment restrictions for registered sex offenders.

NH HB318

Eliminating bail commissioners, and relative to the release of a defendant pending trial and establishing new circuit court judge positions.

NH HB577

Relative to state aid for special education pupils.

NH HB610

Expanding the definition of providers who can certify patients of the therapeutic cannabis program and relative to release of a defendant pending trial and relative to product labeling and information guide requirements for cannabis products and the prohibition of the sale of hemp products containing certain levels of THC.

NH HB38

Relative to the conditions for release of a defendant pending trial.

Similar Bills

LA SB31

Creates database to track trafficking arrests, convictions, restitution, fines, and civil asset forfeiture. (8/1/23) (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

WV HB2894

Prohibiting human trafficking of illegal aliens

CA AB2545

Human trafficking: penalties.

WV HB4519

Relating to establishing criminal penalties for human trafficking

IA HF594

A bill for an act relating to restitution for the death of a person caused by a victim of human trafficking.(Formerly HF 125.)

WV HB5031

Relating to human trafficking

IA HF908

A bill for an act relating to human trafficking, including screening children, 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.(Formerly HF 452; See HF 1036.)

IA HF1036

A bill for an act relating to human trafficking, including screening children, civil statutes of limitations, an annual stakeholder meeting and report, depositions of victims, restitution, restorative facilities and protective services, and investigation and prosecution, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HF 908, HF 452.)