MN HF3018

Amends the definition of "patron" to mean an individual who engages in prostitution by hiring, offering to hire, or agreeing to hire another individual to engage in sexual penetration or sexual contact.

Redefines "prostitute" to mean an individual who engages in prostitution by being hired, offering to be hired, or agreeing to be hired by another individual to engage in sexual penetration or sexual contact.

Establishes criminal penalties for patrons engaging in prostitution in public places as a gross misdemeanor, with minimum fine of $1,500.

Establishes criminal penalties for patrons engaging in general prostitution as a misdemeanor with minimum fine of $500, or as a gross misdemeanor with minimum fine of $1,500 and 20 hours of community work service if convicted within two years of a previous prostitution conviction.

All amendments effective August 1, 2010, and apply to crimes committed on or after that date.