California Assembly approves AB 379 to combat child exploitation and human trafficking

In a pivotal Assembly Floor Session held on May 15, 2025, California lawmakers gathered to discuss Assembly Bill 379, a comprehensive measure aimed at combating human trafficking and enhancing protections for minors. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as Assemblymember Schultz introduced the bill, emphasizing the need for strong legislative action to safeguard children from exploitation.

Schultz highlighted California's existing robust laws against human trafficking, noting that AB 379 builds upon these foundations by introducing tougher penalties for adults soliciting minors and imposing fines on businesses that fail to prevent trafficking within their premises. The bill proposes felony charges for adults who solicit minors, particularly when there is a significant age difference, and establishes a new misdemeanor for loitering with the intent to purchase sex. Additionally, it mandates educational programs for offenders to understand the implications of their actions on trafficking.

The bill also aims to enhance victim support by creating a survivor support fund, which will be financed through the fines collected from violators. This fund is intended to provide resources for community organizations that assist trafficking survivors, ensuring they receive the necessary support to rebuild their lives.

However, the session was not without contention. Assemblymember Sharp Collins raised concerns about the vagueness of the loitering provision, arguing that it could disproportionately target marginalized communities, particularly people of color. She cited alarming statistics indicating that a significant percentage of loitering arrests involved Black and Latino individuals, raising questions about potential racial profiling and the bill's overall effectiveness.

Despite these concerns, many lawmakers expressed strong support for AB 379, framing it as a crucial step in the fight against child exploitation. Assemblymember Avila Farias passionately advocated for the bill, underscoring its dual focus on punishment and prevention. Other members echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of holding traffickers accountable while providing necessary resources for victims.

As the debate unfolded, it became clear that while there was broad agreement on the need to protect children, the path forward required careful consideration of the bill's implications. Assemblymember Ransom noted the importance of refining the legislation to avoid unintended consequences, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Ultimately, the Assembly voted overwhelmingly in favor of AB 379, with 72 votes in support and none against, signaling a collective commitment to addressing the pressing issue of human trafficking in California. As the bill moves to the Senate, lawmakers remain dedicated to refining its provisions, ensuring it effectively protects children while safeguarding against potential abuses in enforcement. The session concluded with a sense of hope that this legislation could pave the way for a safer future for California's youth.