2026 - HB 493 - Commercial Sexual Activity

Bill Text:

This bill amends Section 18-5614 of the Idaho Code, which pertains to soliciting commercial sexual activity. The revised language specifies that a person is guilty of this offense if they pay or agree to pay for sexual contact or offer a third party for such contact in exchange for a fee. The bill establishes different penalties based on the age of the offender: for individuals aged eighteen to under twenty-one, soliciting commercial sexual activity is classified as a misdemeanor, with a minimum jail sentence of five days and potential fines up to $2,000. A second or subsequent conviction would elevate the charge to a felony.

For individuals aged twenty-one and older, the act of soliciting commercial sexual activity is classified as a felony, carrying a minimum jail sentence of six months and potential fines up to $10,000. The bill also includes provisions that prevent courts from suspending or commuting the minimum confinement periods for both misdemeanors and felonies. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2026.