TRENTON, NJ – A new proposal before the New Jersey Legislature would broaden the state’s definition of human trafficking to include anyone who profits financially from the crime — even if they are not directly involved in organizing or managing it.
Assembly Bill 198, pre-filed for introduction in the 2024 session, was sponsored by Assemblyman Michael Inganamort and Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia, both Republicans representing the 24th Legislative District covering Morris, Sussex, and Warren counties.
The measure is co-sponsored by a slate of GOP lawmakers, including Assemblymen Gerard Scharfenberger, Brian Bergen, Christopher Barranco, Jay Webber, Paul Kanitra, and Assemblywomen Michele Matsikoudis, Aura Dunn, and Nancy McCann Stamato.
Expanding liability for human trafficking profits
Under current state law, a person can be convicted of human trafficking if they knowingly recruit, harbor, or transport a person for sexual activity or labor through coercion, threats, or fraud, or if they receive anything of value as an organizer, supervisor, financier, or manager of such activity.
The proposed legislation would expand that to include anyone who “benefits financially” from a trafficking scheme — even if they do not play a leadership role.
Supporters say the update would close loopholes that allow those indirectly profiting from human exploitation to evade prosecution.
First-degree penalties remain unchanged
Human trafficking remains classified as a first-degree crime in New Jersey, carrying a sentence of up to life imprisonment and a minimum of 20 years before parole eligibility. Convicted offenders also face a mandatory fine of at least $25,000, which is directed to the Human Trafficking Survivor’s Assistance Fund.
The bill would not alter the penalties but would expand the range of individuals who can be held accountable.
Lawmakers say goal is accountability
According to the bill’s statement, the intent is to ensure that anyone financially benefiting from trafficking operations can be prosecuted — not just those in command positions.
If enacted, the law would take effect immediately.
Assembly Bill 198 seeks to make anyone who profits from human trafficking in New Jersey criminally liable, even if they are not an organizer or manager.