HARRISBURG – Legislation to give investigators and prosecutors new tools to fight human trafficking in Pennsylvania was overwhelmingly passed by the Senate today, according to Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20).
“Human trafficking is a devastating crime exploiting vulnerable individuals,” said Baker. “This legislation strengthens Pennsylvania’s ability to combat traffickers by providing law enforcement and prosecutors with clearer authority and stronger penalties for those who profit from or fuel this exploitation. Just as importantly, it directs resources toward support programs for victims and help prevent future trafficking.”
Senate Bill 45 will help local law enforcement agencies and the state attorney general investigate and prosecute human trafficking by increasing penalties for several related crimes, including promoting prostitution, promoting prostitution of a minor, exploiting prostitutes and patronizing prostitutes.
Fines paid by those convicted of patronizing prostitutes will be split between the state’s Safe Harbor for Sexually Exploited Children Fund and the Prevention of Human Trafficking Account established in Pennsylvania’s General Fund.
The bill also consolidates crimes related to human trafficking within the Crimes Code, giving the attorney general concurrent jurisdiction for these crimes, which are frequently the basis for large-scale human trafficking operations.
Senate Bill 45, which is supported by Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday and numerous anti-human trafficking organizations, now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
If you believe you may have information about a trafficking situation, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.