WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 1956

An Act to define inducing a minor into prostitution

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 1 co-sponsor

Criminalizes inducing a minor into prostitution or sexual conduct for pay, with 3–5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine for offenders and those who aid.

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 1956

Summary of H.1956: An Act to define inducing a minor into prostitution

Purpose and intent

H.1956 proposes to define and formally penalize the act of inducing a minor to engage in prostitution or to engage in or offer to engage in sexual conduct for a fee. The bill also covers knowingly aiding and assisting in such inducement. The overarching goal is to strengthen protections for minors from being drawn into prostitution and to provide clearer criminal penalties for those who induce or facilitate such conduct.

Key provisions

  • Amendments to Chapter 272, Section 4A (Massachusetts law) are proposed to read that:
    • Whoever induces a minor to engage in, agree to engage in, or offer to engage in prostitution or sexual conduct with another person in return for a fee, or who knowingly aids and assists in such inducement, shall be punished as described below.
  • Penalties specified:
    • Imprisonment in the state prison for not more than five years and not less than three years.
    • A fine of $5,000.
  • The bill explicitly covers both the act of inducing and aiding/assisting in the inducement.

Who is affected

  • Primary target: Individuals who induce a minor to engage in prostitution or related sexual conduct for compensation.
  • Additional target: Individuals who knowingly aid or assist in the inducement.
  • The statute applies to “a minor” (as defined by existing age-related statute in Massachusetts law, typically under 18) and to those who facilitate or profit from such acts.

Procedural status and timeline

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025.
  • Referred to: The Judiciary committee (House docket No. 1956; House sponsor: Rep. David M. Rogers).
  • Legislative actions indicate cross-chamber consideration and related matters filed in prior sessions.
  • Hearing: Scheduled for June 10, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, in hearing room A-2.
  • Related matter: HD 1711 (the House counterpart) is the active version replacing similar prior proposals; the bill is identified as a companion to/replacement for related prior filers.

Summary of impact

  • This bill would create a clearer, statute-based framework for prosecuting adults and others who induce minors into prostitution or sexual conduct for a fee.
  • It establishes a defined range of imprisonment (3–5 years) and a $5,000 fine, signaling a serious penalty intended to deter offenders.
  • The measure reinforces protections for minors and provides prosecutors with a specific charge for inducement and aiding/assisting in such acts.

Next steps for readers

  • Monitor the June 10, 2025 hearing for updates on testimony, potential amendments, and progression through the Judiciary committee.
  • If advanced, watch for floor votes and any cross-chamber actions or reconciliations with the Senate counterpart or related bills (HD 1711).

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

Sign in to ask a question.