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HB 2721

sex trafficking victims; prosecution prohibited

57th Legislature - Second Regular Session Introduced by Selina Bliss and 1 co-sponsor

Arizona bill prohibits criminal prosecution of sex trafficking victims for crimes committed while being trafficked, providing legal protection from culpability.

House Second Reading
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2721

Legislative bill overview

HB 2721 prohibits the prosecution of sex trafficking victims for crimes they committed while being trafficked. The bill recognizes that victims of human trafficking may be coerced into illegal activities and seeks to shield them from criminal liability for those offenses. This represents a legal acknowledgment that trafficked individuals lack the voluntary agency required for traditional criminal culpability.

Why is this important

Trafficking victims often face prosecution for prostitution, drug offenses, theft, or other crimes committed under their trafficker's control, creating barriers to victim services and rehabilitation. This bill could prevent re-traumatization through the criminal justice system and allow victims to seek help without fear of arrest. The policy reflects growing recognition that criminalizing victims perpetuates harm and conflicts with victim protection objectives.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and proof: Questions about how trafficking victimization will be established, burden of proof, and whether claims can be raised as an affirmative defense or prevent prosecution entirely
  • Prosecutorial discretion: Concerns about limiting law enforcement's ability to prosecute serious crimes and potential difficulty distinguishing genuine trafficking situations from false claims
  • Implementation challenges: Practical questions about how courts will handle cases where trafficking status is disputed, retroactive application, and resource impacts on the judicial system

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

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