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HF 228

A bill for an act relating to prostitution, and making penalties applicable.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Gjerde

HF 228 imposes stricter penalties for purchasing sexual services from minors, enhancing protections and deterring exploitation of vulnerable youth.

Subcommittee recommends passage.
#minors #prostitution
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HF 228

Summary of Bill HF 228

Bill Number: HF 228
Title: A bill for an act relating to prostitution, and making penalties applicable.
Status: Subcommittee recommends passage.
Introduced: February 06, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Minors, Prostitution

Purpose and Intent

Bill HF 228 aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding prostitution, specifically focusing on the protection of minors. The bill seeks to impose stricter penalties on individuals who engage in sexual acts with minors or those who are reasonably believed to be minors, thereby enhancing the legal consequences for such actions.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment to Existing Law: The bill amends Section 725.1 of the Code 2025, specifically subsection 2, paragraph b.

  • Definition of Offense: The bill establishes that it is a Class “D” felony for a person to purchase or offer to purchase sexual services from:

    • A person under the age of eighteen.
    • A person who is reasonably believed to be under the age of eighteen, including law enforcement officers or agents posing as minors.

  • Penalties for Offenders:

    • A Class “D” felony is punishable by:
    • Confinement for up to five years.
    • A fine ranging from $1,025 to $10,245.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Potential Offenders: Individuals who seek to purchase sexual services from minors or those posing as minors would face increased legal repercussions.
  • Minors: The bill aims to provide greater protection for minors from exploitation and abuse in the context of prostitution.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • February 06, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Judiciary Committee.
    • February 11, 2025: Subcommittee formed, consisting of members Thompson, M., Wessel-Kroeschell, and Williams.
    • February 18, 2025: Subcommittee meeting scheduled for February 19, 2025, at 12:30 PM in RM 304.1.
    • February 19, 2025: Subcommittee recommends passage of the bill.

Conclusion

HF 228 represents a legislative effort to enhance the penalties associated with the purchase of sexual services from minors, thereby aiming to deter such activities and protect vulnerable populations. The bill is currently progressing through the legislative process, with a recommendation for passage from the subcommittee.

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

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