California law goes into effect steepening penalties for the human trafficking of minors

SB 14 goes into effect in California Jan.1, 2024. This legislation classifies human trafficking of a minor for purposes of a commercial sex act as a serious felony and imposes harsher penalties and sentencing enhancements for individuals convicted of the crime.

“We applaud California lawmakers for public policy that exposes sex trafficking and protects the vulnerable,” said Jeff Anderson. “California is making a great example by holding perpetrators of these heinous crimes truly accountable.”

SB 14, which passed the California Assembly and Senate unanimously, is supported by more than 100 national and international organizations – including the coalition of human trafficking survivors and advocates.

Since 2019, California has taken a comprehensive approach to combat human trafficking, with a total investment of $280.1 million to eliminate traffickers and support victims.