HB598 Summary

• Prohibits sexually exploited children under age 18 from being adjudicated delinquent or convicted of prostitution crimes; instead allows adjudication as child in need of supervision or dependent child.

• Defines "sexually exploited child" as a minor subjected to sexual exploitation including human trafficking, prostitution, or promoting prostitution under specified Alabama Code sections.

• Prevents transfer of cases involving sexually exploited children from juvenile court to adult court, except in cases where child is convicted or adjudicated as youthful offender.

• Authorizes juvenile court to retain jurisdiction over sexually exploited children and issue orders necessary to protect their health and safety, including emergency protection or restraint orders.

• Requires availability of social and community services to sexually exploited children including forensic services, counseling, shelter, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, medical care, legal services, education support, and investigation of perpetrators.