California Democrats face backlash for opposing tougher penalties on soliciting minors
- California's existing laws already classify sex trafficking of minors as a felony, and solicitation of minors can be charged as a wobbler.
- Some Democratic lawmakers expressed concerns that increasing penalties for soliciting may harm vulnerable youth and those in sex work.
- The debate around the bill illustrates internal divisions among Democrats and ongoing discussions about how to effectively address sex trafficking.
In California, a significant debate emerged regarding a proposed law aimed at addressing the issue of sex trafficking of minors. This discussion intensified in late April 2025, when Democrats in the state legislature pushed back against parts of a bill, known as AB 379. The bill sought to enhance penalties for customers soliciting sex from individuals aged 16 and 17, suggesting that such offenses should be treated as felonies rather than misdemeanors. Under current law, sex trafficking of minors is already classified as a felony. However, soliciting sex from 16 and 17-year-olds generally falls under the category of a 'wobbler' offense, meaning it can be charged as either a felony or misdemeanor depending on the specifics of the case. Some Democrats felt that the proposed changes overly criminalized young individuals and could disproportionately affect those involved in sex work, exemplifying a concern for civil liberties. The division among Democrats highlights a broader conflict within the party regarding how best to tackle issues of human trafficking without unnecessarily punitive measures. Some legislators, including Assemblymember Krell who introduced AB 379, advocated for harsher penalties, while a faction of Democratic representatives argued that increasing penalties could have unintended negative consequences for vulnerable populations. This internal dissent coincided with mounting criticism from opposing political parties, particularly Republicans, who accused Democrats of failing to take a strong stand against sex trafficking. As the bill continued through the legislative process, with some parts omitted and amendments proposed, it remained a contentious topic with varying perspectives on the effectiveness of increased punitive measures versus supportive resources for those victimized by trafficking or sex work. As the discussions evolve, the political landscape in California around these critical issues is being closely watched, as it raises fundamental questions about justice, morality, and the role of lawmakers in social issues affecting minors.