An Act to renumber and amend 940.302 (3) and 948.051 (3); to create 893.586, 895.439 (title), 895.439 (1) (title) and 895.439 (2) (title) of the statutes; Relating to: the civil causes of action for human trafficking and trafficking a child.
Impact
One of the key impacts of SB849 is that it allows victims of child trafficking to initiate civil action against perpetrators at any time before reaching the age of 35. Previously, there were strict time limitations, which may have deterred some victims from seeking redress for their suffering. This bill effectively extends the timeframe for legal action and could lead to an increase in civil lawsuits against offenders, thereby aiming to provide a new avenue for accountability and support for victims.
Summary
Senate Bill 849 introduces significant amendments to the existing laws regarding civil causes of action for human trafficking and child trafficking in Wisconsin. The bill aims to enhance the legal protections for victims by allowing them to file civil actions regardless of whether there has been a criminal prosecution or conviction related to their case. This change intends to empower victims who may face obstacles in prosecuting their traffickers under criminal laws, providing them a means to seek justice and compensation through civil courts.
Contention
Notably, the bill may face contention regarding the implications of allowing civil actions without a criminal conviction. Critics may argue that this could open the floodgates for frivolous lawsuits; however, proponents assert that the need for justice and support for trafficking victims far outweighs this concern. The discussion around SB849 highlights differing perspectives on balancing the rights of victims and potential legal ramifications for defendants, making it a noteworthy topic within legal and public safety discussions in Wisconsin.
Crossfiled
An Act to renumber and amend 940.302 (3) and 948.051 (3); to create 893.586, 895.439 (title), 895.439 (1) (title) and 895.439 (2) (title) of the statutes; Relating to: the civil causes of action for human trafficking and trafficking a child.
Establishes the crime of benefiting from a labor trafficking venture, benefiting from a sex trafficking venture; creates a civil action relating thereto; and revives certain civil actions relating thereto
Concerning A Civil Cause Of Action For Victims Of Human Trafficking; And To Provide A Statute Of Limitation Period Of Ten Years For A Victim Of Human Trafficking.