MO HB433

Repeals and replaces sections 566.206, 566.209, and 566.212 of Missouri law relating to human trafficking crimes and their penalties.

Trafficking for slavery, involuntary servitude, peonage, or forced labor is punishable by a fine not to exceed $250,000 or imprisonment of 5-20 years, or both; enhanced to 5 years to life imprisonment if death results or the crime includes kidnapping, class B sexual abuse, or attempted killing.

Trafficking for sexual exploitation is punishable by a fine not to exceed $250,000 or imprisonment of 5-20 years, or both; enhanced to 5 years to life imprisonment if death results or the crime includes kidnapping, class B sexual abuse, or attempted killing.

Sexual trafficking of a child under 18 is a felony punishable by a fine not to exceed $250,000 or imprisonment of at least 10 years to life, or both; eliminates the affirmative defense that the defendant believed the victim was 18 or older.

Persons convicted of trafficking for slavery, involuntary servitude, peonage, or forced labor are not required to register as sexual offenders unless otherwise required by law.