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Michigan Senate Approves Tougher Penalties For Human Trafficking
Russ Survance
Sun, 01 Feb 2026 09:35:47 EST
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The Michigan Senate has unanimously advanced legislation aimed at strengthening penalties for human trafficking. Under the proposed changes, the maximum sentence would increase from 10 to 20 years in prison, and the fine would double to $20,000. Cases involving minors could result in a life sentence.
One of the bills would also adjust how the justice system handles victims and offenders connected to trafficking. Minors would no longer face charges for facilitating prostitution, and first-time offenders could qualify for probation coupled with a mandatory human trafficking education program.
Sen. John Damoose (R-Harbor Springs) said lawmakers collaborated with Attorney General Dana Nessel's office to craft measures that better deter trafficking crimes. Damoose described human trafficking as "the worst form of evil," emphasizing its devastating impact on vulnerable victims, particularly children.
