BISMARCK, N.D. – A North Dakota bill establishing mandatory minimum sentences for human trafficking is passed by the Legislature.
The bill was introduced by four state representatives including Republicans Daniel Johnston of Kathryn and Austen Schauer of West Fargo.
The measure sets minimum prison terms for human trafficking for the first time in the state’s history. Depending on the offense, the minimum sentences are set at seven, 15 or 40 years. Previously, the maximum sentence for the crime was life in prison and there was no minimum.
Governor Kelly Armstrong will now decide on signing or vetoing the bill.
