The bill adds child trafficking to a list of serious felonies in California, with those convicted facing sentences of 25 years to life in prison under the three strikes law.
More modifications are expected to be made to the bill such as an amendment ensuring victims are not penalized and the legislation doesn’t disproportionately affect people of color. The bill now goes before the appropriations committee before heading to governor Gavin Newsom’s desk for signing.
Republicans cheered the outcome and called it a day for Californians to celebrate, while Democrats were divided over whether increased penalties are an effective deterrent of crime.
