Assembly approves AB 379 to enhance California's anti-human trafficking laws

In a significant move to combat human trafficking in California, the Assembly passed Assembly Bill 379, which aims to strengthen protections for minors and hold accountable those who exploit them. The bill, introduced by Assembly Member Schultz and supported by a bipartisan coalition, received overwhelming approval with a vote of 72 to 0.

AB 379 introduces tougher penalties for adults soliciting minors, establishing felony charges for those more than three years older than the victim. It also criminalizes loitering with the intent to purchase sex, a provision that has sparked debate among lawmakers regarding its potential for racial profiling and disproportionate enforcement against marginalized communities.

Key components of the bill include enhanced fines for businesses that fail to comply with human trafficking notice requirements and a new survivor support fund that will direct collected fines to organizations aiding victims. The bill also mandates educational programs for offenders to understand the impact of their actions on trafficking.

Supporters of the bill, including Assembly Members Avila Farias and Ransom, emphasized the importance of protecting children and providing necessary resources for survivors. They highlighted that the legislation is a crucial step in addressing the growing issue of human trafficking in California, which has seen a significant rise in recent years.

However, some lawmakers expressed concerns about the vagueness of the loitering provision, fearing it could lead to racial profiling and unjust targeting of individuals based solely on their presence in certain areas. Assembly Member Sharp Collins articulated these worries, calling for careful consideration to ensure that the law does not disproportionately affect communities of color.

As the bill moves to the Senate, its authors have committed to refining its provisions to address these concerns while maintaining a strong stance against human trafficking. The passage of AB 379 marks a pivotal moment in California's ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable populations and combat exploitation.