House Bill 12-69 is moving forward after unanimous approval by the Indiana House Courts and Criminal Code Committee.

The bill, authored by South Bend State Representative Maureen Bauer, creates a new sentencing option for judges involving a prostitution offender education program.

Under the proposal, a judge could order the program after an unlawful proposition conviction.

Participants would pay a 500-dollar fee, which would help fund rehabilitation efforts, victim support and human trafficking prevention programs.

Supporters say the bill focuses on accountability while working to reduce repeat offenses and exploitation. House Bill 12-69 now heads to the full House for further consideration.