DATE:
April 22, 2025
11
TO:
Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT:
Title
SUPPORT FOR ASSEMBLY BILL 379: SURVIVOR SUPPORT AND DEMAND REDUCTION ACT (DISTRICTS: ALL)
Body
OVERVIEW
In 2022, Senate Bill 357 decriminalized loitering for the purpose of engaging in prostitution. The effect of this decriminalization has left communities, law enforcement, and vulnerable youth-particularly 16- and 17-year-old victims of trafficking-without critical protections. Despite being legally defined as minors, the lack of clear statutory language left uncertainty over whether these individuals could be treated as victims of trafficking under the law.
In response, Assembly Bill 379 (AB 379), authored by Assemblymember Maggie Krell, would ensure that those who are victims of commercial sexual exploitation are treated with dignity and care while reaffirming law enforcement's ability to investigate, deter, and penalize those who fuel demand for exploitation. AB 379 explicitly reaffirms that any individual under the age of 18-including 16- and 17-year-olds-who is engaged in commercial sex is a victim, not a criminal. It mandates that these minors be referred to diversion programs and offered appropriate support, rather than being processed through the criminal justice system. This change resolves the confusion created by SB 357 and restores the ability of law enforcement and service providers to assist exploited youth.
AB 379 also strengthens enforcement against those who perpetuate the demand for commercial sex. It increases penalties for individuals who knowingly solicit or engage in sex with minors and establishes a new misdemeanor offense for loitering with intent to purchase sex.
The bill also creates the Survivor Support Fund, directing State revenue from offender fines to community-based organizations that serve trafficking survivors. These funds will expand outreach, trauma-informed services, and recovery programs.
Today's action recommends the Board of Supervisors adopt a...
Click here for full text