Sacramento, California – A bipartisan effort has emerged in the California legislature to strengthen penalties related to the purchase of sex from minors. Assembly Bill 379, introduced by Assemblywoman Maggy Krell and Senator Shannon Grove, seeks to address perceived deficiencies in existing legislation.
The proposed bill aims to close loopholes that arose from amendments to previous legislation, particularly regarding 16- and 17-year-old victims. Grove emphasized her commitment to child protection, highlighting Krell’s expertise in sex trafficking prosecution. The legislation would reclassify loitering with the intent to purchase prostitution as a misdemeanor, carrying a $1,000 fine.
The bill’s introduction follows controversy surrounding prior legislative attempts. Amendments to Grove’s Senate Bill 1414 softened penalties, reducing the severity of consequences for purchasing sex from older minors.
Concerns have also been raised about the impact of a 2022 law that decriminalized loitering for prostitution, with proponents of Assembly Bill 379 arguing that it has hindered law enforcement’s ability to combat sex trafficking.
Critics of the decriminalization law, including Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci Park, have expressed concern about the increased visibility of public prostitution and its impact on vulnerable populations. Senator Scott Wiener, author of the decriminalization bill, counters that such laws perpetuate discrimination against marginalized groups.
This ongoing debate underscores the complexities of balancing public safety with individual rights. If you or someone you know is a victim of sex trafficking, contact us for legal assistance.
