CT SB00153

Raises the minimum age for prostitution charges from under 16 to under 18 years old, creating a safe harbor for minors under 18.

Establishes a presumption that prostitutes aged 16-17 were coerced into the offense, shifting the burden to prosecutors to prove otherwise.

Increases penalties for promoting prostitution involving minors under 18 from a class C felony to a class B felony, with a mandatory minimum of 9 months imprisonment.

Clarifies that patrons and promoters of prostitution cannot use a minor's age as a defense to avoid prosecution, even if the minor cannot be charged under prostitution laws.

Effective October 1, 2010.