Human Trafficking (H 5661, S 605)

A human trafficking bill also passed with problematic, overly broad language. As defined, a now-unlawful “sexually-explicit performance” of a minor could have severe First Amendment implications for the art community.  Under the new law, promoters of plays, music videos, performance art, etc. could all be subject to severe penalties merely if the performance “appeals to the prurient interests of patrons or viewers,”  even though it need not be sexually explicit in any way. The ACLU is considering challenging the constitutionality of this law.