This bill, Minnesota Senate File No. 2380, proposes increased penalties for engaging in prostitution with minors by amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, Section 609.324, Subdivision 1.

Key Provisions:

1. Prostitution with a minor under 14 years old:

   • Maximum 30 years imprisonment and/or $40,000 fine.
   • This applies to those engaging in prostitution with, hiring, or agreeing to hire a minor for sexual penetration or contact.

2. Prostitution with a minor under 16 years old (but at least 14):

   • Maximum 15 years imprisonment and/or $30,000 fine.
   • Applies similarly to direct engagement or hiring attempts.

3. Prostitution with a minor under 18 years old (but at least 16):

   • Maximum 10 years imprisonment and/or $20,000 fine for engaging in prostitution.
   • Additionally, offenders hiring, offering, or agreeing to hire an individual reasonably believed to be within this age group also face these penalties.

4. Lowest tier offenses (engaging in prostitution with a minor 16-17 years old):

   • Maximum 5 years imprisonment and/or $10,000 fine.

Impact:

• Stronger penalties distinguish offenders by the victim's age.
• Higher imprisonment terms and fines aim to deter child exploitation.
• Covers intent-based offenses, even if the minor’s actual age is different from the offender’s reasonable belief.

This legislation signals Minnesota's commitment to increasing legal consequences for child exploitation and prostitution-related offenses.