NJ A4215

First offense of prostitution as a patron (purchasing sexual activity) would be upgraded from a disorderly persons offense to a crime of the fourth degree, punishable by up to 18 months imprisonment and fines up to $10,000

Fourth or subsequent offense remains a crime of the third degree, punishable by 3-5 years imprisonment and fines up to $15,000

All fines collected from patron prostitution convictions would be directed to the "Human Trafficking Survivor's Assistance Fund" for victim services and trafficking awareness programs

Persons convicted of the upgraded fourth-degree offense would be required to participate in the "Prostitution Offender Program," an educational course on human trafficking and health risks

The bill aims to reduce demand for sex trafficking by imposing harsher penalties on those who purchase sexual activity