A controversial bill to repeal a provision of California law that prohibits loitering with the intent to sell sex is on its way to Gov. Senate Bill 357 would rescind the misdemeanor law against loitering in public for the purpose of engaging in prostitution. Opponents said SB 357 would remove a crucial tool to stop sex trafficking, especially of children, and would hamstring victim outreach efforts. Russell proposed a legislative blueprint called Pathways to Safety, which calls for policy solutions to prevent sex trafficking and provide victims with resources for recovery. Sending SB 357 marks the near-end to a yearlong battle over how to address a part of California law that has divided advocates across the spectrum.

Source: Los Angeles Times June 21, 2022 06:40 UTC