California Cracks Down on Sex Trafficking of Minors

California Governor Signs SB 14 to Combat Human Trafficking of Minors

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• Governor Newsom signed SB 14 (Grove) to make the trafficking of a minor for purposes of a commercial sex act a serious felony.

Introduction

California Governor Gavin Newsom, together with First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, State Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield), State Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced), survivors, and advocates, gathered today to sign SB 14 (Grove) into law. This legislation aims to strengthen penalties for human trafficking of minors in California. The law designates the trafficking of a minor for purposes of a commercial sex act as a serious felony, including under the state’s “Three Strikes” law. It also imposes harsher penalties and sentencing enhancements for individuals convicted of this crime.

Governor Newsom’s Statement

Governor Newsom expressed his gratitude for the bipartisan effort in spearheading this legislation, stating that California is taking further steps to protect children from the sick crime of human trafficking. He commended Senator Grove, Speaker Rivas, and Pro Tem Atkins for their leadership in making communities and children safer.

First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom’s Statement

First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom emphasized the devastating impacts of human trafficking on young women, girls, and entire communities. She expressed her gratitude to Senator Grove for her dedication in combating human trafficking and helping create a safer environment for women and children.

Senator Shannon Grove’s Statement

Senator Shannon Grove celebrated the signing of SB 14 as a significant victory for California’s children and survivors of sex trafficking. She sent a clear message to child traffickers that they will be put out of business and behind bars where they belong.

Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins’ Statement

Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins highlighted the moral obligation to strengthen laws protecting minors from sex trafficking. She commended Senator Shannon Grove for her dedication to this bill and to victims and survivors. She also acknowledged the leadership of Governor Newsom and Speaker Rivas in upholding the goals of increasing awareness, preventing trafficking, and supporting impacted individuals and families.

Speaker of the Assembly Robert Rivas’ Statement

Speaker of the Assembly Robert Rivas emphasized the united front of California’s leaders against human trafficking and the commitment to not criminalize victims. He recognized the support of his Assembly colleagues, who voted unanimously in favor of SB 14, and applauded the author and the Governor for their leadership on this critical issue.

Background on Human Trafficking in California

Human sex trafficking is a heinous crime with long-lasting, harmful impacts on victims, survivors, and their families. SB 14, a bipartisan measure co-authored by 64 members of the Legislature, passed unanimously in both the state Assembly and Senate. It is supported by over a hundred local, national, and international organizations, including a coalition of human trafficking survivors and advocates.

California’s Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking

California has taken a comprehensive approach to combat human trafficking since 2019, investing a total of $280.1 million. This investment aims to dismantle trafficking networks, support victims and survivors, and prevent future cases. The state has allocated substantial funding to expand support programs for human trafficking survivors and Family Justice Centers, which provide a range of services in one location. Additionally, $25 million has been allocated for the prevention, intervention, and services for minor victims of commercial sexual exploitation. The establishment of Human Trafficking Task Forces at the California Department of Justice has resulted in numerous arrests and assistance to victims. The California Highway Patrol’s interdiction efforts have also led to the arrest of traffickers. Governor Newsom has signed multiple bills to strengthen legal protections for trafficking victims, including provisions for vacating convictions and considering trauma in sentencing.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 5: Gender Equality, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

The specific targets identified based on the article’s content are:

• Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual exploitation
• Target 8.7: Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labor, end modern slavery and human trafficking, and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labor
• Target 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against and torture of children

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

No indicators are mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets.

4. SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: gov.ca.gov

Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.