New Hampshire Senate advances bill targeting buyers of commercial sex to combat trafficking

New Hampshire lawmakers are taking significant steps to combat human trafficking with the introduction of Senate Bill 267, which aims to impose stricter penalties on individuals who purchase sexual services. During a recent meeting of the House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee, advocates and survivors of trafficking voiced their support for the bill, emphasizing the urgent need to hold buyers accountable and redirect funds to support survivors.

The proposed legislation would classify the act of purchasing sex as a Class A misdemeanor, a move intended to deter potential buyers and reduce demand for human trafficking. The financial penalties collected from offenders would be allocated to the New Hampshire Human Trafficking Collaborative Task Force, which focuses on providing essential services to victims and preventing future exploitation.

Survivors shared powerful testimonies highlighting the pervasive nature of human trafficking in New Hampshire, stressing that it is not just a distant issue but a reality affecting local communities. Abby Fabiacci, a co-founder of Empowered Network, pointed out that the average age of girls trafficked in the U.S. is just 13, underscoring the need for immediate action. She argued that making the crime of buying sex comparable to a speeding ticket is a necessary step in addressing the issue.

However, the bill has faced criticism from some who argue that it could inadvertently harm consensual adult sex workers by driving the industry underground and complicating efforts to identify victims of trafficking. Critics, including legal experts and advocates for sex workers, expressed concerns that the legislation could create safety issues for those in the industry, making it harder for them to seek help or report exploitation.

Despite the differing opinions, the overarching sentiment among supporters is clear: addressing the demand for commercial sex is crucial in the fight against human trafficking. As the committee continues to hear testimonies, the future of Senate Bill 267 remains uncertain, but its potential impact on the lives of survivors and the broader community is undeniable. The committee is expected to vote on the bill soon, signaling New Hampshire's commitment to combating human trafficking and supporting those affected by it.