CA State Legislature passes bill classifying child sex trafficking as a serious felony.
California Lawmakers Pass Bill to Combat Child Sex Trafficking
California lawmakers have taken a significant step in the fight against child sex trafficking by unanimously approving a bill that classifies it as a serious felony. The bill, known as SB 14, increases penalties for child traffickers and allows for life sentences under the state’s “three strikes” law in certain cases.
BREAKING: The California legislature passes bill to classify child sex trafficking as serious felony, which would keep repeat traffickers in prison longer.
The bill now heads to Gov. Newsom’s desk after a final, unanimous vote of approval in the State Senate. The vote: pic.twitter.com/ryc5zey8ZN
— Ashley Zavala (@ZavalaA) September 13, 2023
Republican state Sen. Shannon Grove of Bakersfield, the author of the bill, emphasized the importance of SB 14 in protecting future generations from this horrific crime. She stated, “SB 14 will send a direct message to those committing this horrific crime of selling our children for sex in the state of California that we will no longer stand by and tolerate this, and you will serve a lengthy prison sentence.”
Democrat state Senator Susan Rubio of Baldwin Park expressed her support for the bill, stating that its passage sends a message to victims that California lawmakers are here to help and support them.
The bill faced controversy among State Assembly Democrats over the summer due to concerns about language that could potentially prosecute victims forced to assist traffickers. However, Sen. Grove addressed these concerns by making several changes to the bill.
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After initially blocking the bill, the Assembly Public Safety Committee reversed course and approved it in a forced emergency hearing following national backlash, including criticism from Governor Newsom. Newsom and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas reportedly encouraged committee members to support the measure.
Good to see.
Thank you, @RobertRivas_CA for your leadership. https://t.co/usNArT5bK1
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) September 12, 2023
Governor Newsom expressed his support for the bill, acknowledging Senator Grove’s efforts and stating that he cares deeply about this issue. He has until October 14 to sign or veto SB 14, along with hundreds of other bills.
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