WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HSB 15

A bill for an act establishing the criminal offense of the smuggling of persons, and providing penalties.

2025-2026 Regular Session

HSB 15 criminalizes person smuggling for profit, imposing severe penalties to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and harm, enhancing public safety.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 572.
#contraband #criminallaw
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HSB 15

Summary of HSB 15: Smuggling of Persons Bill

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HSB 15
Title: A bill for an act establishing the criminal offense of the smuggling of persons, and providing penalties.
Status: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 572.
Introduced: January 15, 2025
Classification: Proposed bill
Subject: Contraband, Criminal Law

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HSB 15 is to establish a legal framework for addressing the crime of smuggling persons. This bill aims to enhance public safety by imposing penalties on individuals who engage in the smuggling of persons for pecuniary gain, particularly in situations that may lead to serious harm or exploitation of the smuggled individuals.

Key Provisions

  • Criminal Offense Definition: The bill defines the smuggling of persons as a criminal offense, particularly when the smuggler has the intent to obtain a financial benefit.

  • Penalties:

    • A violation of this law is classified as a Class "A" felony under specific circumstances, including:
    • If the smuggled individual becomes a victim of sexual abuse (first or second degree).
    • If the smuggled individual suffers serious bodily injury or death as a direct result of the smuggling.

  • Affirmative Defense: The bill allows for an affirmative defense against prosecution for smuggling if the actor is related to the smuggled individual within the second degree of consanguinity or affinity, provided that the smuggling did not create a substantial risk of serious bodily injury or death.

Affected Parties

  • Smugglers: Individuals who engage in the act of smuggling persons for financial gain will face severe legal consequences.
  • Smuggled Individuals: Those being smuggled may be at risk of exploitation, abuse, or serious harm, making them a central focus of the legislation.
  • Law Enforcement: The bill will require law enforcement agencies to adapt their practices to enforce the new provisions effectively.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 15, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Judiciary Committee.
  • January 16, 2025: Subcommittee meeting held to discuss the bill.
  • January 22, 2025: Subcommittee recommends passage of the bill.
  • February 20, 2025: Committee report recommending amendment and passage; committee vote results in 13 yeas, 4 nays, and 4 excused.
  • February 24, 2025: Committee report approving the bill, which has been renumbered as HF 572.

Conclusion

HSB 15 represents a significant step towards addressing the serious issue of human smuggling. By establishing clear penalties and definitions, the bill aims to deter potential smugglers and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and harm. The legislative process is ongoing, with further discussions and amendments anticipated as the bill progresses through the legislative system.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.