BIPARTISANSHIP ALERT: Protecting Victims Of Sex Trafficking Act Of 2017

Both Chambers of Maryland General Assembly Vote Unanimously to Approve Important Legislation Giving Authorities Ability to More Effectively Prosecute Sex Traffickers

“Our proposed legislation will further define sexual abuse to include sex trafficking regardless of whether the sexual abuse was committed by a parent or any other person who has permanent, or temporary care, or responsibility for supervision of the child.” - Governor Larry Hogan, January 12, 2017

Protecting Victims Of Sex Trafficking Act Of 2017

Governor Hogan’s Proposed Legislation Further Defines The Definition Of Sexual Abuse Relating To Child Abuse To Include The Sex Trafficking Of A Child. “‘Sex trafficking’ means the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, obtaining, patronizing, or soliciting of a child for the purpose of a commercial sex act. ‘ Sexual abuse’ means any act that involves: sexual molestation or exploitation of a child by a parent or other person who has permanent or temporary care or custody or responsibility for supervision of a child, or by any household or family member; or sex trafficking of a child.” (“Senate Bill 308,” Maryland General Assembly,1/20/17)

Common Sense Bipartisan Proposal Received Unanimous Support In Both Chambers Of The Maryland General Assembly

The Maryland State Senate Unanimously Approved The Protecting Victims Of Sex Trafficking Act Of 2017 By A Vote Of 46-0. (“Senate Bill 308,”Maryland General Assembly, 3/8/17)

The Maryland House Of Delegates Unanimously Approved The Protecting Victims Of Sex Trafficking Act Of 2017 By A Vote Of 138-0. (“House Bill 632,” Maryland General Assembly, 3/9/17)