HI HB1517

Provides immunity from prosecution for misdemeanor or lesser prostitution offenses under Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 712, Part I for individuals who report criminal activity to law enforcement or serve as witnesses in judicial proceedings.

Immunity applies when a person's truthful statements or testimony regarding a felony investigation, prosecution, or conviction reveals they committed a prostitution-related misdemeanor or lesser offense.

Protects both buyers and sellers of sexual services who come forward to report crimes, particularly instances of sex trafficking, by removing fear of prosecution as a barrier to cooperation.

Does not affect rights, duties, penalties, or proceedings that were established before the effective date of July 1, 2019.