CT HB06696

Redefines trafficking in persons to include compelling or inducing another person to engage in sexual conduct (more than one occurrence) or labor through force, threat of force, fraud, or coercion; established as a class B felony effective October 1, 2013.

Creates affirmative defense for prostitution charges (section 53a-82) if defendant was a victim of trafficking; establishes presumption of trafficking victimhood for defendants ages 16-17 charged with prostitution.

Elevates patronizing a prostitute to a class B felony if the patron knew or should have known the person was under 18 years old or was a trafficking victim; otherwise remains a class A misdemeanor.

Allows defendants with prior prostitution convictions to petition Superior Court to vacate their convictions if they were trafficking victims at the time of the offense.

Establishes a task force to study trafficking data and recommend statutory improvements; must submit report to judiciary committee by January 1, 2014, with task force terminating upon report submission.