A new law in Wisconsin, Assembly Bill 86, is making it a top priority to protect children. This legislation, introduced in 2025, now makes child trafficking a more serious crime. Anyone convicted of trafficking three or more children could face a sentence of life in prison. This law shows that Wisconsin has a zero-tolerance policy for child trafficking and is dedicated to both punishing offenders and protecting vulnerable children.
At the Singleton Law Firm, our criminal defense attorneys are experienced in handling complex child trafficking cases. If you are facing sex crime allegations under Assembly Bill 86 or related laws, we offer compassionate, knowledgeable defense to help navigate these charges.
What Does Assembly Bill 86 Do?
Assembly Bill 86 is a new law that was introduced during the 2025-2026 Wisconsin Legislature session, aimed at strengthening penalties for child trafficking crimes. The bill went through several legislative committees and is now moving toward becoming a law. This new legislation will change current statutes to enforce stricter punishments, showing Wisconsin's commitment to holding offenders accountable and preventing child trafficking.
Key Provision of AB 86
- Elevating child trafficking involving at least three child victims to a Class A felony
- Imposing a mandatory life imprisonment sentence for these Class A felony cases
- Prohibiting eligibility for release to extended supervision for those convicted under these provisions
- Clarifying penalties for persons who knowingly benefit from child trafficking crimes
- Amending current statutes to align sentencing guidelines and enforcement with the new penalty framework
By raising the penalty to life imprisonment without parole eligibility, Assembly Bill 86 sends a clear message that the state prioritizes justice for its youngest and most vulnerable citizens, deterring offenders and enhancing protections for children across Wisconsin.
Why the Penalty for Child Sex Trafficking Was Increased
Child trafficking is a reprehensible offense that causes lifelong physical, emotional, and psychological harm to vulnerable children, exploiting their innocence and trust for the perpetrator’s gain. Recognizing the severity and the lasting trauma involved, lawmakers have elevated the penalty to a Class A felony with a mandatory life imprisonment sentence when multiple child victims are involved. By increasing the penalty, the law aims not only to punish offenders but also to emphasize the state’s unwavering stance against child trafficking, reinforcing safeguards for children and their families.
Understanding the Difference Between Class C and Class A Felonies in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, felonies are divided into classes based on their severity, with Class A felonies representing the most serious offenses and Class C felonies considered serious but less severe than Classes A or B. Understanding the difference between these felony classes is important because it directly affects the potential penalties and lifelong consequences defendants face.
Class C Felony Penalties
- Up to 40 years in state prison
- Fines up to $100,000
- Long-term supervision after release
- Permanent felony record affecting rights such as voting and employment
Class A Felony Penalties
- Life imprisonment, often without parole
- No eligibility for extended supervision in many cases
- Severe restrictions on civil rights
- Lasting social and legal consequences for life
How This Law Could Affect Future Child Trafficking Cases
Assembly Bill 86 sets a powerful precedent in Wisconsin by ensuring that child traffickers who victimize three or more children face the maximum penalty of life imprisonment without eligibility for extended supervision. This law strengthens the message that such predators will be held fully accountable and face the harshest consequences available under state law.
This precedent not only deters potential offenders but also empowers prosecutors to pursue the strongest charges possible. It sends a clear signal that exploitation of children will not be tolerated, and those who commit these horrific crimes will be met with the full force of the law.
Singleton Law Firm’s Commitment to Defense
Facing serious child sex trafficking charges can be stressful and confusing. At Singleton Law Firm, we provide strong defense focused on protecting your rights throughout the legal process. Our experienced attorneys handle cases involving child sexual abuse and child sex trafficking with professionalism and care, ensuring you receive the fair representation you deserve. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the New Wisconsin Child Trafficking Law
Does AB 86 apply to past offenses?
Assembly Bill 86 applies prospectively to crimes committed after its enactment. It does not retroactively increase penalties for child trafficking offenses committed before the law took effect. This means individuals convicted of child trafficking prior to the bill’s passage would be subject to the penalties in place at the time of their offense, while new cases after the law’s effective date will face the stricter sentencing provisions of AB 86.
What qualifies as child sex trafficking under Wisconsin law?
Child sex trafficking in Wisconsin is defined as knowingly recruiting, enticing, providing, obtaining, or harboring any child for the purpose of commercial sexual acts or sexually explicit performances. Commercial sex acts involve sexual contact for which anything of value is exchanged, directly or indirectly. Wisconsin law classifies child trafficking as a crime that involves exploiting minors under 18 for commercial sex or labor, with severe penalties, especially when multiple victims are involved.
Can individuals convicted under AB 86 ever be paroled?
No. One of the key aspects of Assembly Bill 86 is that individuals convicted of child trafficking crimes involving three or more child victims face a mandatory life imprisonment sentence without eligibility for extended supervision or parole. This means convicted traffickers under this statute generally cannot be paroled, reflecting the law’s intent to impose the maximum sentencing possible to protect vulnerable children and ensure accountability.
How does AB 86 protect children in Wisconsin?
AB 86 creates a stronger legal deterrent by imposing the most severe penalties for repeat or large-scale child trafficking offenses. This sends a clear message that Wisconsin prioritizes protecting children by holding offenders accountable with life sentences and restricting their ability to gain early release, thereby enhancing child safety across the state.
