HB 5010 Michigan House · 2025-2026 Regular Session

Criminal procedure: defenses; affirmative defense that individual committed a crime because the individual was a victim of human trafficking; establish. Amends 1927 PA 175 (MCL 760.1 - 777.69) by adding sec. 21e to ch. VIII.

This bill creates a legal defense for individuals charged with crimes who were victims of human trafficking. It allows defendants to argue that their criminal act was a direct result of being trafficked, applying to both felony and misdemeanor charges under Michigan law. To use this defense, the defendant must prove it by a "preponderance of evidence" (more likely than not). The bill amends Michigan's criminal procedure code to include this provision, directly affecting trafficking victims facing criminal charges for acts committed under coercion.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Sep 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Sep 18, 2025 Last action Sep 24, 2025
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Full legislative history

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Total actions
4
Key actions
0
Committee
1
Sep 18, 2025
Committee
referred to Committee on Judiciary
lower
Sep 18, 2025
Introduced
introduced by Representative Rep. Pauline Wendzel
lower
1 primary · 18 co-sponsors

Sponsors