California lawmakers have reversed their decision to block a bill that aims to classify child sex trafficking as a serious felony.
The initial vote on the child sex trafficking bill sparked outrage among observers with shouts of disapproval and emotional reactions echoing from the gallery. (Photo: iStock)
California Lawmakers Acknowledge Urgency of Child Sex Trafficking Issue
According to Law and Crime, the Democratic-led committee of the state’s assembly convened an emergency session on Thursday, where the previously blocked bill regarding child sex trafficking was passed with a unanimous vote of 6-0.
The bill, known as SB14 had already received unanimous approval in the Democratic-majority state Senate earlier in the year. However, it faced an unexpected setback on Tuesday when all six Democrats on the Assembly committee abstained from voting, citing the need for further work on the legislation.
The initial vote on the child sex trafficking bill sparked outrage among observers with shouts of disapproval and emotional reactions echoing from the gallery. Critics criticized California Lawmakers, calling them “horrible” and urging them to feel ashamed of themselves for their decision.
Reacting swiftly, Republican lawmakers in the Assembly made efforts to force a floor vote on the bill. In response, Democrats issued a counter-threat, warning that bringing the bill directly to the floor might jeopardize its chances of receiving full funding.
Ultimately, the tide turned on Thursday when four out of the six Democrats who had previously abstained decided to vote in favor of the bill regarding child sex trafficking. This left only two Democrats abstaining, effectively allowing the bill to move forward.
Opponents Argue Harsher Penalties Won’t Solve Child Trafficking Issue
SB14, authored by Republican state Senator Shannon Grove, seeks to amend existing legislation to categorize child sex trafficking or trafficking a minor as a “serious felony” in California. The state currently operates under a “three strikes law,” which imposes a sentence of 25 years to life in prison for individuals convicted of at least three serious felonies.
Opponents of the bill argue that harsher penalties for child traffickers may not address child sex trafficking issues effectively.
They point to studies indicating that the implementation of “three strikes laws” does not necessarily lead to a reduction in crime. Furthermore, such laws have been criticized for exacerbating racial disparities in sentencing.
Democratic state leaders have acknowledged the concerns raised by the bill’s opponents and have pledged to work alongside its proponents to address these issues. They have scheduled SB14 for reconsideration, indicating a willingness to find a compromise.
Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer, the chair of the Public Safety Committee, offered an explanation for the committee’s initial decision to vote against the bill.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Jones-Sawyer argued that the “Three Strikes” model of sentencing is ineffective in preventing crime, child sex trafficking, and ensuring public safety.
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