In response to public pressure, Democratic lawmakers in California have revived a stalled child trafficking bill, Senate Bill 14. The proposed legislation aims to increase penalties for child traffickers and designate the crime as a serious felony in the state.
Under the bill, individuals with at least three serious felony convictions would face a prison sentence of 25 years to life. Initially, Democrats on the state Assembly Public Safety Committee chose not to advance the bill, citing opposition to longer prison sentences as a deterrent to crime.
However, Governor Gavin Newsom’s public support for the bill, introduced by Republican state Sen. Shannon Grove, prompted Democrats to change course.
On Thursday, the committee advanced the bill without any amendments. In a swift meeting, four Democrats, including chair Reggie Jones-Sawyer, joined Republicans in advancing the bill out of the committee before a legislative deadline.
Assemblymember Liz Ortega, who had previously voted against the bill, expressed regret and acknowledged her mistake in a tweet, stating that voting against legislation targeting child traffickers was wrong.
The California child trafficking bill will undergo review by the Appropriations Committee before heading to a vote on the Assembly floor. Jones-Sawyer intends to propose amendments to ensure that child trafficking victims are not penalized and that the legislation does not disproportionately impact people of color.
If you or someone you know is a victim of trafficking, seek legal assistance from the Women’s Rights Group to pursue compensation for your suffering and obtain the support you deserve. The Women’s Rights Group is a safe space. Call us today for a free, confidential consultation.
