DE HB264

Elevates patronizing a prostitute involving a minor to a class E felony rather than a misdemeanor.

Establishes that it is not a defense that the minor consented to engage in commercial sexual activity or that the defendant believed the minor was an adult.

Maintains misdemeanor status for patronizing a prostitute involving adults, with a minimum mandatory fine of $500 that cannot be suspended.

Increases penalties to class A misdemeanor (or class E felony if minor involved) for patronizing prostitution occurring on or within 1,000 feet of schools, residences, churches, synagogues, or other places of worship, with a minimum mandatory fine of $1,000.

Requires vehicle seizure for defendants with a prior conviction for patronizing a prostitute within the previous 5 years.