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HF 137

Definition of prior qualified human trafficking-related offense amended to include violations of certain state laws committed in the person's lifetime and violations of similar laws in other states.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Keith Allen and 3 co-sponsors

HF 137 - Definition of Prior Qualified Human Trafficking-Related Offense Amended OverviewBill Number: HF 137 Title: Definition of prior qualified human trafficking-related offense

Author added Knudsen
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Bill Summary · HF 137

HF 137 - Definition of Prior Qualified Human Trafficking-Related Offense Amended

Overview

Bill Number: HF 137
Title: Definition of prior qualified human trafficking-related offense amended to include violations of certain state laws committed in the person's lifetime and violations of similar laws in other states.
Status: Author added Knudsen
Introduced: January 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HF 137 is to expand the definition of a "prior qualified human trafficking-related offense" to include violations of certain state laws committed at any point in a person's lifetime, as well as violations of similar laws in other states. This change is intended to strengthen the state's ability to prosecute and penalize individuals with a history of human trafficking-related crimes.

Key Provisions

  • Amends the definition of "prior qualified human trafficking-related offense" to include violations of Minnesota statutes related to labor trafficking, sex trafficking, and solicitation of minors for sexual conduct, committed at any point in the person's lifetime.
  • Expands the definition to also include violations of similar laws in other states, regardless of when the offense was committed.
  • Requires the consideration of these expanded definitions when determining sentencing enhancements or mandatory minimum sentences for human trafficking-related crimes.

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Individuals convicted of human trafficking-related offenses, who may face harsher penalties due to the expanded definition of "prior qualified" offenses.
  • Law enforcement and prosecutors, who will have a broader scope to consider when building cases and seeking appropriate sentences for human trafficking crimes.
  • Victims of human trafficking, who may benefit from increased penalties and deterrence of repeat offenders.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

HF 137 was introduced on January 27, 2025 and is currently in the early stages of the legislative process. The bill has been assigned to the Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform Finance and Policy Committee for further consideration. If passed by the committee and both chambers of the legislature, the bill would then be sent to the governor for signature or veto.

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

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