Decriminalization of Child Sex Trafficking Victims
Senate Bill 1322

In 2016, California signed into law Senate Bill (SB) 1322 which precludes minor victims of commercial sexual exploitation from being arrested and charged with prostitution and loitering with intent. Authored by Senator Holly Mitchell and strongly supported by the National Center for Youth Law, this bill recognizes the harmful effects of arresting victims for their perpetrators’ crime, including further traumatization, disconnection from the community and school, and vulnerability to violence. It is supported by recent federal and state law aimed at building capacity in the child welfare system to identify and serve CSEC victims.

NCYL is working closely with its partners to educate stakeholders and ensure the smooth implementation of SB 1322.