Criminal Law - Benefits Exploitation

SB 170 prohibits individuals from knowingly exploiting another person's government benefits through coercion, deception, or other means. It specifically bans recruiting, harboring, transporting, or obtaining someone to appropriate their benefits (including Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, Social Security, or veterans benefits) for personal gain. The bill also prohibits financial benefit from such exploitation, aiding violations, or conspiring to commit these acts. Violations are classified as felonies punishable by up to 25 years in prison or a $15,000 fine. This law directly affects individuals who exploit vulnerable people - such as the elderly, disabled, or immigrants - by misusing their government assistance programs.