Utah § 76-5-308.6 - Human trafficking of a child for commercial sexual exploitation.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 76-5-308.6 — Human trafficking of a child for commercial sexual exploitation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 76-5-308.6. Human trafficking of a child for commercial sexual exploitation.

Effective 5/6/2026
76-5-308.6. Human trafficking of a child for commercial sexual exploitation.

(1)

(a)

As used in this section:

(i)	"Child" means an individual who is younger than 18 years old.

(ii)	"Commercial sexual act" means the same as that term is defined in Section 76-5-308.1.

(iii)

"Commercial sexually explicit performance" means the same as that term is defined in Section 76-5-308.1.

(b)	Terms defined in Section 76-1-101.5 apply to this section.

(2)	An actor commits human trafficking of a child for commercial sexual exploitation if the actor enlists, harbors, transports, obtains, patronizes, or solicits a child for the purpose of procuring the child's labor in the form of a commercial sexual act or a commercial sexually explicit performance.

(3)

(a)

A violation of Subsection (2) that is done knowingly is a first degree felony punishable by a term of imprisonment of not less than:

(i)	10 years and which may be for life if the child described in Subsection (2) is 14 years old or older but younger than 18 years old; or

(ii)	15 years and which may be for life if the child described in Subsection (2) is under 14 years old.

(b)	A violation of Subsection (2) that is done recklessly is a second degree felony.

(4)	An offense committed under this section is a separate offense from any other offense committed in relationship to the commission of an offense under this section.

(5)	In accordance with Section 76-2-304.5, it is not a defense to a prosecution under this section that the actor mistakenly believed the child described in Subsection (2) was 18 years old or older at the time of the violation of Subsection (2) or was unaware of the child's true age.

Enacted by Chapter 247, 2026 General Session

Source: official Utah text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 76-5-308.6

What does Utah Code § 76-5-308.6 cover?

Section 76-5-308.6 ("Human trafficking of a child for commercial sexual exploitation.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Utah § 76-5-308.6?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 76-5-308.6" (Utah). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Utah law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.

How does Utah § 76-5-308.6 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Official text of § 76-5-308.6 at the Utah source

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Utah.