Child trafficking is a growing concern in California, with countless children at risk every day. Shockingly, 98% of children who are sex trafficked had prior involvement with child welfare professionals, highlighting the vulnerability of these young victims. Many families and communities feel powerless in the face of such a dangerous and widespread issue.
However, California has recently introduced a new law aimed at cracking down on child traffickers and offering better protection for victims of trafficking. This new California law strengthens penalties for those involved in this criminal activity and provides greater support for victims.
Here, we’ll explore how the law works, what it means for children and families, and what steps can be taken to prevent trafficking. Together, we can make a difference in protecting our children from harm.
What is the New California Law Against Child Trafficking?
In response to the alarming rise in child trafficking, California has taken decisive steps to strengthen protections for vulnerable children. Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed four bills into law, each designed to address different aspects of this horrific crime.
One of these, SB 963, requires hospitals with emergency departments to implement policies to identify child victims of trafficking or domestic violence. SB 1414 intensifies penalties for those who solicit or engage in sex with minors, making it a felony and sending a clear message to child traffickers.
AB 2020, known as the Survivors of Human Trafficking Support Act, establishes a statewide program to support trafficking survivors. Additionally, AB 1888 creates a special unit within the Department of Justice to investigate and prevent labor trafficking, a hidden yet pervasive form of exploitation.
These new laws not only target traffickers. They also provide much-needed support for child victims who have suffered and give them a better chance at recovery.
How Does This Law Protect Victims of Child Trafficking?
The California laws are designed to provide crucial protections for victims of child trafficking. Here are the key ways these laws help safeguard vulnerable children:
- Confidential Self-Identification: Emergency room patients can now confidentially identify themselves as trafficking victims. This empowers children to seek help safely, ensuring they receive immediate assistance and resources.
- Increased Penalties for Traffickers: There are now heightened penalties for those who solicit minors involved in child sex trafficking. This change enables prosecutors to charge offenders with felonies and requires more convicted traffickers to register as sex offenders, ensuring accountability.
- New Guidelines for Law Enforcement: Law enforcement agencies are establishing minimum guidelines for interacting with survivors of human trafficking. This ensures that victims receive compassionate and effective support throughout their recovery process.
- Specialized Investigation: The Department of Justice has created a dedicated unit to investigate and address labor trafficking. This unit coordinates with various state departments to provide vital resources for victims and work towards preventing ongoing exploitation.
What Steps Should You Take If You Suspect Child Trafficking?
If you believe a child may be a victim of child trafficking in California, it’s crucial to act quickly while following the proper steps:
- Report your suspicions: Contact local law enforcement, the National Human Trafficking Hotline, or child welfare services. Immediate reporting can help ensure the child’s safety and begin the protection process.
- Avoid confrontation: If you suspect child abuse or other forms of exploitation, do not approach the potential traffickers yourself. Confronting them may endanger the child or yourself.
- Document evidence: If possible, discreetly gather information such as descriptions, locations, or other details. This information can help law enforcement in their investigation of Human Trafficking.
- Seek legal advice: Consult a lawyer specializing in child welfare or the protection of victims of trafficking to understand the next steps, especially if you are involved with the victim or are a witness.
- Raise awareness: Share resources and knowledge about child trafficking with your community. Educating others can help prevent cases of child sex trafficking victims, forced labor, and other forms of exploitation.
How a Sex Trafficking Attorney Can Help Victims
A sex trafficking attorney plays a crucial role in advocating for victims of child trafficking in California. They can guide families through the complex legal process, ensuring the child’s rights are protected while seeking justice against traffickers.
Attorneys can help address the issue of child sex trafficking by representing victims in civil lawsuits and criminal cases. They work to hold those responsible for the exploitation of children accountable, helping survivors receive compensation for their trauma.
Legal support is vital in child sex trafficking cases, where children are especially vulnerable. At the community level, attorneys also work to raise awareness and promote stronger measures to prevent the trafficking of children.
Protect Children From Exploitation
California’s new law against child trafficking is a significant step forward in protecting vulnerable children from exploitation. By strengthening child protection systems and increasing penalties for human traffickers, the state aims to reduce the trafficking of children and provide justice for survivors.
Parents and the community must stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may indicate trafficking. If you or someone you know needs legal assistance, a sex trafficking attorney can help handle the legal process and fight for the rights of survivors.
If you’re seeking legal support or guidance, contact us today for expert advice and representation in child trafficking cases. We’re here to help you take the next step toward justice.
