The California Assembly unanimously passed legislation aimed at enhancing criminal penalties for soliciting sex from 16- and 17-year-olds. This move follows intense political controversy, particularly after the removal of a felony provision in earlier proposals, provoking widespread criticism. The updated bill allows charges against offenders to be elevated to a felony depending on the age difference with the victim. Assemblymember Maggy Krell emphasized the importance of the legislation in protecting victims and addressing child exploitation, while Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo shared a personal testimony that underscored the bill's significance in combatting sex trafficking.
"This is our solution to one of the most prevalent problems in the state of California, the exploitation and the trafficking of children," Assemblyman Nick Schultz stated.
Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo became emotional while speaking, sharing her own experience as a victim of sexual abuse and stressing the bill's importance.
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