HB5278 Summary

• Eliminates the phrase "for forced labor or services" from trafficking offenses in Section 10-9 of the Criminal Code, broadening the definition of "trafficking in persons" to encompass all forms of trafficking including sex trafficking.

• Adds new definition of "serious harm" to include physical, psychological, financial, and reputational harm sufficiently serious to compel a reasonable person to perform labor or services.

• Extends the statute of limitations for prosecuting trafficking offenses involving victims under 18 years of age to one year after the victim turns 18, with a minimum 3-year period from commission of the offense.

• Allows trafficking victims to petition to vacate prostitution convictions if they can demonstrate they were victims of trafficking under Section 10-9 or the federal Trafficking Victims Protection Act.

• Modifies property forfeiture provisions and victim services funding to target assistance for victims of involuntary servitude, involuntary sexual servitude of minors, and trafficking in persons.