HB270 Alabama 2021 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Merika ColemanSenator

Democrat

Co-Sponsor

Terri Collins

Session

Regular Session 2021

Title

Human trafficking, crimes and penalties further provided, Secs. 13A-6-151, 13A-6-152, 13A-6-157.1, 13A-6-170, 13A-12-122, 15-27-5 am'd.

Summary

HB270 tightens Alabama's human trafficking laws by expanding victim protections, increasing penalties for traffickers (including minors and repeat offenses), and adding enforcement tools for businesses and municipalities.

What This Bill Does

The bill changes how trafficking is proven when the victim cannot consent due to physical or mental incapacity and creates a minimum sentence for trafficking a minor. It also expands civil remedies against traffickers' entities, with court-appointed masters or receivers to seize assets, and strengthens enforcement related to the trafficking hotline by updating posting requirements and penalties. It adds whistleblower protections for employees reporting trafficking, expands expungement rights for trafficking victims, and authorizes municipalities to impound vehicles used in trafficking or prostitution with related procedures and diversion options.

Who It Affects

• Victims of human trafficking — gain stronger protections, expanded expungement options, and whistleblower protections.
• Businesses, employers, licensing authorities, and municipalities — must post hotline information, face enforcement actions for noncompliance, and may have vehicles used in trafficking impounded with diversion and cost-reimbursement provisions.

Key Provisions

• Coercion or deception is not required for trafficking cases if the victim is physically or mentally incapable of consent.
• A minimum period of incarceration is added for trafficking a minor.
• Courts may appoint a master or receiver to seize the assets of a defendant in civil trafficking actions.
• Penalties for failing to post trafficking hotline information are increased; enforcement responsibilities are specified and fines for subsequent violations rise (up to $250).
• A second or subsequent conviction for paying for sexual conduct with a person includes a minimum sentence.
• Expungement petitions filed by trafficking victims must be heard, and petitions must be granted if the victim complies with requirements.
• Whistleblower protection is added to shield employees who report trafficking from retaliation.
• Municipalities may adopt ordinances to impound vehicles used in trafficking or prostitution, with diversion programs and vehicle release and cost-reimbursement rules.
• Mandatory posters about the National Human Trafficking Hotline must be displayed at many businesses and licensing entities, with posters also posted online in multiple languages; enforcement provisions and penalties apply.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Human Trafficking