Criminal Justice (Human Trafficking)

HJR 123 proposes a constitutional amendment to Missouri's Constitution that would require life imprisonment without parole for anyone convicted of first-degree sexual trafficking of a child. This amendment specifically targets the sentencing for this offense, mandating that "imprisonment for life" means confinement for the offender's natural life. The change would take effect only if approved by Missouri voters in the 2026 general election. It directly affects individuals convicted under Missouri's first-degree sexual trafficking of a child statute, removing judicial discretion for parole or probation in these cases. The amendment would be added as Section 38(e) to Article III of the Missouri Constitution.

SJR 81 is a proposed constitutional amendment that would change Missouri's sentencing for first-degree sexual trafficking of a child. If approved by voters, it would mandate life imprisonment without parole for this offense, defining "imprisonment for life" as confinement for the offender's natural lifetime. The amendment directly affects individuals convicted of this specific crime by removing any possibility of probation or parole. This measure requires voter approval at the 2026 general election to become part of Missouri's Constitution.

HB 1688 changes Missouri law to set life imprisonment or death as the maximum penalty for several sexual offenses, including rape in the first and second degrees, sexual abuse, enticement of a child, and trafficking for slavery or sexual exploitation. Key provisions remove probation or suspended sentences for specific cases, such as when a child under 12 is the victim of rape in the first degree, and update definitions of related crimes. This bill directly affects individuals convicted of these offenses in Missouri by altering the potential sentences they may face.