Concerning commercial sexual exploitation.

HB 1265 reclassifies buying sex as "commercial sexual exploitation" (a class C felony, up from a misdemeanor) and imposes tiered financial penalties on offenders based on prior convictions. The bill directly affects individuals who purchase sexual services, requiring fees ranging from $3,000 for first offenses to $10,000 for repeat violations. Revenue from these fees must fund local prevention efforts, including offender education programs like "john schools" and survivor support services. The bill specifically addresses exploitation of vulnerable groups, including children, LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and those in poverty or foster care, as outlined in its legislative intent. It is currently pending in the House Committee on Community Safety.