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60-5003. Civil action for victims of human trafficking or commercial sexual exploitation of a child. (a) A victim of the conduct of another that would constitute conduct prohibited by K.S.A. 21-5426, and amendments thereto, human trafficking or aggravated human trafficking, or K.S.A. 21-6422, and amendments thereto, commercial sexual exploitation of a child, may bring an action in an appropriate state court against the person or persons who engaged in such conduct if the victim suffered personal or psychological injury as a result of the conduct. Such victim may seek actual damages, exemplary or punitive damages, injunctive relief and any other appropriate relief.

(b) In an action under this section, the court shall award a prevailing plaintiff the cost of the suit, including reasonable attorney fees. A victim who is awarded damages under this section shall be deemed to have sustained damages of at least $150,000.

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any action commenced under this section shall be filed within 10 years after the later of the date on which the victim:

(1) Was freed from the human trafficking situation; or

(2) attained 18 years of age.

(d) At the victim's request, the attorney general may pursue cases on behalf of any Kansas victim under this section. All damages obtained shall go to the victim, and the attorney general may seek reasonable attorney fees and costs.

(e) Any action brought under this section shall be subject to the provisions of K.S.A. 74-7312, and amendments thereto.

(f) This section does not preclude any other remedy available to the victim under federal law or law of this state.

History: L. 2015, ch. 94, § 1; July 1.