On Thursday, California State Democrats supported a watered down a bill (AB379) that would address the child sex trafficking industry where “buyers” would face tougher consequences when they buy 16-and-17-year-olds for sex. The proposal would make it an automatic felony to purchase the older teens for sex. The California State Assembly Republicans issued the following statement. Below, are original press releases from the bills author, Assemblywoman Maggy Krell (D-Sacramento).
SACRAMENTO — Assembly Democrat leadership had one job today. Protect kids. They failed.
Instead of passing a straightforward felony penalty for buying 16- and 17-year-old children for sex, they gutted the bill and replaced it with legal smoke. Their amendment relies on “intent” language that means nothing in a courtroom and does nothing to hold predators accountable.
The result is a bill that forces teenage victims to prove they were trafficked just to get justice. If they can’t, their abuser walks. That is what Assembly Democrats voted for.
“Buying a minor for sex must be a felony,” said Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher. “It’s unbelievable that some lawmakers are opposed to this. If we aren’t protecting the most vulnerable among us, what are we doing?”
Republicans tried to block the change. Even the original author of the bill voted no, but that vote failed on a mostly party line vote. Most Assembly Democrats voted to protect the loophole.
This wasn’t a misunderstanding. It was a choice. And it sent a clear message to every predator in California.
Assembly Republicans will keep fighting to fix this. Children deserve real protection. Not staged fixes. Not legal games. Not betrayal.
Watch the full post-floor vote press availability from Assembly Republicans here
Editors Note: Background
AS VICTIMS CONTINUE TO BE SOLD FOR SEX AT ALARMING RATES, SURVIVORS, LAW ENFORCEMENT SEEK PARADIGM SHIFT ON SEX TRAFFICKING APPROACH (April 21)
SACRAMENTO – Ahead of a key vote on April 29, a coalition of survivor support organizations, law enforcement, statewide elected leaders, major city mayors, organized labor and federally-recognized tribes today urged Assembly Public Safety committee members to support Assembly Bill 379. The bill, authored by Assemblywoman Maggy Krell (D-Sacramento), would mark a major overhaul of the state’s approach to sex trafficking enforcement by increasing penalties for buyers and creating a new fund for organizations supporting survivors.
“Human traffickers are selling young girls for sex,” said Assemblywoman Krell, a nationally-recognized sex trafficking prosecutor and former deputy attorney general. “AB 379 helps those girls get their lives back and penalizes the sleazy men who try to buy them.”
On streets known as “blades”, mainly in low-income urban areas, predominantly women and girls are subjected to extreme violence, inflicted by buyers and pimps. In Sacramento alone, more than 13,000 people were trafficked for sex from 2015-2020. The average age of entry is 16 years old.
“Let’s be honest: if we don’t address demand, we are not serious about ending exploitation,” said Sawan Vaden, the executive director of Community Against Sexual Harm Sacramento. “You cannot have a sex trade without buyers. And those buyers aren’t harmless, they are often violent. The women I work with don’t just tell stories of being bought; they tell stories of being abused and discarded.”
Key provisions of AB 379 include:
- Funding Survivor Support: Establishes the Survivor Support Fund, directing fines collected from offenders to community-based organizations that provide direct services and outreach to sex trafficking victims.
- Cracking Down on Demand for Commercial Sex: The bill makes loitering with the intent to purchase commercial sex a misdemeanor, punishable by a $1,000 fine in addition to any other penalties.
- Protecting Minors: Ensures that the crime of purchasing a minor for sex applies in any case where the victim is under the age of 18.
- Connecting to Resources: Those charged with prostitution under current law for receiving something of value in exchange for a sex act, must be offered diversion for first and second time offenses, rather than criminal penalties.
For more information, read the report Estimating Sex Trafficking in Sacramento County and the AB 379 factsheet.
What sponsors are saying:
Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis: “Human trafficking is a $150 billion global industry that preys on the most vulnerable — especially women, children, LGBTQ+ youth, and foster kids. That’s why I’m co-sponsoring AB 379, a bipartisan bill that reflects a balanced, commonsense approach to public safety. This is about making sure that those who exploit the most vulnerable in our society are held accountable, while ensuring survivors get the support and resources they need to heal. I’m grateful for Assemblywoman Krell’s leadership on this critical bill and commitment to standing up for victims.”
State Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced): “California’s approach to public safety has evolved, centering victims and survivors and recognizing the need for prevention, not just punishment. AB 379 reflects that shift. It’s backed by a growing, statewide consensus that includes survivors, law enforcement, labor, tribal communities and everyday Californians. This kind of broad, bipartisan support sends a clear message: we must act urgently to stop sex trafficking and support those who’ve been harmed. In my district, I’ve seen how traffickers exploit isolation, poverty and youth. That’s why I’m proud to co-author this bill and stand with those fighting to end this injustice.”
Regina Cuellar, Tribal Chairwoman, Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians: “Nationally, Native Americans account for 40% of trafficking victims, despite comprising only 3% of the U.S. population. These statistics are unacceptable, and the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians remains steadfast in advocating for change. AB 379 marks an important step in confronting those who prey on Indigenous children and all at-risk youth. It also provides a meaningful pathway for young survivors to escape the sex trade through diversion programs that offer a fresh start. The Survivor Support Fund—comprised of a $1,000 penalty imposed on sex offenders—will provide essential resources such as housing, mental health care, and job training to help survivors heal and rebuild their lives. This legislation stands firmly for minors exploited for sex, equipping law enforcement with necessary tools to target the buyers who perpetuate these crimes.”
Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper: “As Sheriff, I strongly support Assembly Bill 379, which strengthens penalties for prostitution-related offenses, targeting sex buyers and especially those who exploit minors through human trafficking. Human trafficking is a horrific crime that destroys lives and preys on the most vulnerable members of our communities through coercion, violence, and fear. Demand drives this criminal industry, and by holding buyers and traffickers accountable with tougher consequences, we can take meaningful steps to dismantle these operations and protect victims. Our children and communities deserve to be safe. I urge lawmakers to pass this bill and take a firm stand against human trafficking in our state.”
Sacramento Chief of Police Katherine Lester: “AB 379 strengthens our ability to protect vulnerable youth and hold predators accountable. Traffickers thrive in silence, but with stronger laws, survivor support, and real accountability, we’re sending a clear message that exploitation has no place in our communities.”
San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan: “It’s time our laws make it absolutely clear: children and adults are not commodities to be bought and sold. I’m proud to co-sponsor AB379 with Assemblywoman Krell to close unjust loopholes that have allowed traffickers and criminal buyers to exploit vulnerable teens with little accountability. This bill strengthens the tools for law enforcement to go after the predators who fuel California’s second largest criminal industry and humanely expands vital shelter and support services for survivors trying to rebuild their lives. Human trafficking destroys futures—this legislation is a step toward justice, protection, and hope for those who need it most.”
Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson: “AB 379 is a common sense approach to reducing sex trafficking by cracking down on the demand that bolsters this criminal enterprise while also supporting survivors by establishing a fund for victims of sex trafficking. As Mayor of the City of Riverside, I am grateful to Assemblymember Krell for taking on this fight on behalf of our communities.”
Assemblywoman Krell Introduces the Survivor Support and Demand Reduction Act
Assemblywoman Krell Introduces the Survivor Support and Demand Reduction Act
SACRAMENTO – In an effort to better protect and support survivors of sex trafficking while cracking down on the demand that fuels victimization, Assemblywoman Maggy Krell (D-Sacramento) has introduced AB 379, which would establish a fund for community-based organizations supporting victims of sex trafficking, make it a crime to loiter with the intent to purchase sex, and ensure that the crime of purchasing a minor for sex applies in any case where the victim is under 18.
“If enacted, this law will fund community-based organizations helping victims escape sex trafficking while cracking down on those who are keeping the industry going. As Deputy Attorney General I spent years sending sex traffickers to prison, but there were never enough resources to help the victims, and in some cases, the victims were criminalized instead of those attempting to purchase sex acts with them. This law will change that,” said Assemblywoman Maggy Krell (D-Sacramento).
Sex trafficking remains a scourge in communities across California. On streets known as “blades” or “tracks,” in poor urban neighborhoods, mostly women and teens are bought by men who pull up in cars and offer money in exchange for degrading sex acts. Often, the money goes to sex traffickers who are watching and monitoring the individuals for sale on the blade. In 2022, California decriminalized loitering for prostitution, making it more difficult for law enforcement to intervene and investigate sex trafficking cases. In turn, the sex trafficking industry has openly flourished. Neighborhoods and small businesses have been crushed by “blade activity”, while victims have experienced increased levels of violence. Meanwhile, community based organizations dedicated to supporting victims are over worked and under resourced.
“Imagine a crowded In n’ Out drive-through; for every person taking the orders, 10-15 cars are waiting to be served,” said Sawan Vaden, executive director of Community Against Sexual Harm (CASH), a community-based organization that provides services to people who have been sexually exploited, including direct street outreach. “That’s the amount of demand that is on our streets in Sacramento; for every victim you see, there are at least fifteen men in cars lined up to buy sex, sitting there with total impunity.”
Sex trafficking disproportionately impacts girls and women of color from impoverished neighborhoods, LGBTQ youth, and children from the foster care system. Lacking a stable home environment and support system increases vulnerability.
“Early childhood sexual abuse and rape pushed me into exploitation. I nearly lost my life at the hands of sex buyers on multiple occasions. Even as an adult, I was still trapped in the system of prostitution— it never felt consensual. This bill doesn’t just provide funding for victim support—it ensures that there are stronger legal tools to target the predators who keep this violent industry thriving by buying women and girls like me,” said Marjorie Saylor, a survivor leader and advocate who serves as the San Diego District Attorney’s Care Coordinator & Director of Human Trafficking Services and Awareness.
Key Provisions of AB 379:
- Funding Survivor Support: Establishes the Survivor Support Fund, directing fines collected from offenders to community-based organizations that provide direct services and outreach to sex trafficking victims.
- Cracking Down on Demand for Commercial Sex: The bill makes loitering with the intent to purchase commercial sex a misdemeanor, punishable by a $1,000 fine in addition to any other penalties.
- Protecting Minors: Ensures that the crime of purchasing a minor for sex applies in any case where the victim is under the age of 18.
- Connecting to Resources: Those charged with prostitution under current law for receiving something of value in exchange for a sex act, must be offered diversion for first and second time offenses, rather than criminal penalties.
For more information, read the report “Estimating Sex Trafficking in Sacramento County” and the AB 379 factsheet.
What other supporters are saying:
Senator Shannon Grove, (R-Bakersfield), Principal Co-Author of AB 379 and Author of SB 14 and SB 1414: “As a former Prosecutor who handled major sex trafficking cases, Assemblywoman Krell is uniquely qualified to lead on human trafficking legislation. I am honored to partner with her to ensure all children are equally protected from sexual exploitation and to provide vital support to survivors of this horrific crime. Together, we are committed to strengthening protections for the most vulnerable among us.”
Vanessa Russell, Executive Director of Love Never Fails, an Oakland-based community organization providing support to survivors of trafficking, including direct outreach: “As human trafficking has grown in the beautiful city of Oakland, it’s brought with it a rising level of violence concentrated along hotspots like International Boulevard. Trafficking, and the violence that comes with it, harms every part of the community – residents, businesses, overstretched community organizations, and the victims themselves. Meanwhile, local law enforcement is hamstrung to stop this exploitation without laws in place to criminalize loitering the intent to purchase commercial sex.”
Ashlie Bryant, CEO, 3Strands Global Foundation, a national organization based in Sacramento, focusing on human trafficking prevention, education and reintegration for survivors: “At 3Strands Global Foundation, we believe in a future where every individual is free from the threat of human trafficking and exploitation. AB 379 is a critical step forward in protecting vulnerable communities, strengthening prevention efforts, and ensuring survivors receive the support they deserve. Importantly, this legislation also addresses the demand that fuels trafficking, holding perpetrators accountable and reducing exploitation at its root. We stand in full support of AB 379 and urge its passage to create a safer California for all.”
Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis: “Human trafficking is a crisis that demands urgent action. I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of this crime. I am proud to cosponsor AB 379, and I am grateful for Assemblywoman Maggy Krell’s work in championing this critical bill. AB 379 will help strengthen enforcement, prevention, and efforts to reduce demand—helping keep our communities safer.”
Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper: “As Sheriff, I strongly support Assembly Bill 379, which strengthens penalties for prostitution-related offenses, targeting sex buyers and especially those who exploit minors through human trafficking. Human trafficking is a horrific crime that destroys lives and preys on the most vulnerable members of our communities through coercion, violence, and fear. Demand drives this criminal industry, and by holding buyers and traffickers accountable with tougher consequences, we can take meaningful steps to dismantle these operations and protect victims. Our children and communities deserve to be safe. I urge lawmakers to pass this bill and take a firm stand against human trafficking in our state.”
Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho: “The Sacramento County DA’s Office created a regional task force to combat human trafficking. I am proud to cosponsor this piece of legislation with Assemblywoman Krell because it would help advance that cause. This bill will also give law enforcement more tools that they desperately need to protect victims and hold traffickers accountable.”
San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan: “It’s time that our laws clearly declare that children and adults are not for sale, provide law enforcement with the tools to protect victims from criminal buyers and traffickers, and increase resources needed to help victims recover from trauma. I’m proud to co-sponsor Assembly Bill 379 and stand alongside Assemblywoman Krell to strengthen human trafficking laws. This important bill closes a loophole that allowed teen children to be trafficked and bought for sex like a slice of pizza with little consequence. It also provides the tools for law enforcement to protect victims by enforcing loitering for prostitution laws against exploitative buyers who fuel human trafficking and provides increased resources for much needed services and shelter for victims of human trafficking. Only by bolstering human trafficking laws can we protect the most vulnerable and stop allowing lives to be destroyed.”
Sponsors:
- Community Against Sexual Harm (CASH)
- Love Never Fails
- 3Strands Global Foundation
- California Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis
- Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper
- San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan
- Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho
About Assemblywoman Maggy Krell: Assemblywoman Maggy Krell represents the 6th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Sacramento, Arden-Arcade, Antelope, Carmichael, Elverta, La Riviera and Rio Linda. Earlier this year, Assemblywoman Krell hosted a human trafficking policy roundtable discussion with survivor leaders at the state Capitol. Krell also joined local law enforcement and the California Department of Justice in the announcement of the Sacramento Regional Human Trafficking Task Force, a critical step in addressing sex trafficking in the Sacramento region. Prior to being elected to the Assembly, Krell led the California Department of Justice’s anti-trafficking efforts and prosecuted major sex trafficking cases. She received a career achievement award from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children for her work. Learn more about Assemblywoman Krell at https://a06.asmdc.org/.
Previous
- Jan 27, 2025 – Bill Would End Sanctuary State Protections for Sex Traffickers
- Sept, 23, 2023 – Bill to Increase Penalties for the Sex Trafficking of Children Signed into Law
