HI HB695

Establishes a Center to Combat Human Trafficking within the Department of the Attorney General to coordinate state and county efforts with federal agencies in locating, recovering, and protecting trafficking victims.

Requires employment of a coordinator and assistant coordinator (outside civil service requirements) to develop systems addressing human trafficking, including communication networks, standardized reporting, trained response teams, educational programs, and a statewide computerized database.

Amends the sex trafficking statute to establish strict liability for advancing or profiting from prostitution of a minor, removing the requirement to prove the defendant's state of mind regarding the victim's age.

Appropriates unspecified funds from general revenues for fiscal years 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 to establish and operate the center.

Takes effect upon approval, with the center establishment provisions effective July 1, 2021.