Increasing protection for minors when victims of human trafficking

SB 287 amends West Virginia law to protect minors who are victims of human trafficking from criminal prosecution for prostitution. Specifically, it adds a provision to §61-8-5(b) stating that no minor shall be prosecuted for prostitution if the court determines they are a victim of trafficking under the human trafficking statutes (§61-14-1 et seq.). The bill directly affects minors under 18 who are exploited in commercial sex acts, ensuring they are treated as victims rather than criminals. Key mechanisms include explicitly removing criminal liability for minors in these circumstances while maintaining penalties for traffickers, pimps, and others who profit from trafficking. The changes aim to align West Virginia law with victim-centered approaches to human trafficking.