The California State Assembly has passed AB 379, a bill that makes it a felony for adults to solicit sex from minors aged 16 and 17. This legislative move follows efforts by Republicans and survivor advocates to reinstate key felony penalties previously removed in committee discussions.
Assemblywoman Maggy Krell (D-Sacramento) played a significant role in the passage of the bill, supported by public pressure from survivors, law enforcement, and Republican legislators. The legislation aims to hold offenders accountable and safeguard vulnerable youth.
Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher (East Nicolaus) expressed his appreciation for Krell’s commitment: “Thank you to Assemblywoman Maggy Krell for her steadfast dedication to protecting children from these monsters. I am so happy the bill has been restored to its original language.”
Survivors of trafficking have also voiced their support for the bill. Anabel Velasquez shared her perspective as a survivor: “Had AB 379 been in place when I was trafficked, my life would have been very different.” Another survivor, Ashley Faison-Maddox, emphasized the need to close legal loopholes: “I don’t want these loopholes to continue for buyers to get away with harming children.”
Anna Berry from Crime Victims United highlighted the importance of legislative decisions: “Californians are watching every day. Lawmakers must decide whether they stand with families and survivors or with criminals that hurt them and threaten public safety.”
AB 379 will next be reviewed by the Senate Public Safety Committee. Despite some lawmakers’ concerns, there is bipartisan momentum behind this legislation following similar issues with last year’s SB 1414.
