California Advances Child Sex Trafficking Bill

California lawmakers advanced Assembly Bill 379, which targets buyers in the child sex trafficking industry, after removing a provision that would have made it a felony to purchase sex from 16- and 17-year-olds. The bill's author, Assemblywoman Maggy Krell, expressed frustration at the amendment, which was necessary to secure a committee hearing. The current bill imposes strict penalties for soliciting minors under 16 and establishes a Survivor Support Fund for trafficking victims. Critics, including Republicans and some advocacy groups, argue the bill fails to adequately protect older teens and could criminalize young adults in close-in-age relationships. The debate comes amid broader reforms, such as the decriminalization of loitering for prostitution and increased judicial discretion in charging. Supporters maintain the bill is a meaningful step to protect children and support survivors.