By Lynn Hatter
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wfsu/local-wfsu-996552.mp3
Tallahassee, FL – Florida Lawmakers are trying to crack down on sex trafficking. Lynn Hatter reports, they're trying to find a balance between criminalizing prostitution while recognizing that some women and children have been forced into the practice against their will.
A bill by Senator Anitere Flores, A Republican from Miami, would give law enforcement greater discretion in deciding which prostitution arrests to try criminally and which ones to defer to safe houses and other programs set up to help victims of sex trafficking. Senate Bill 202, called the "Safe Harbor Act" also establishes tougher penalties on pimps and others who exploit young girls. Senator Rhonda Storms, who chairs the Children and Families Committee, calls the move a small step forward.
"I'd rather try something and have it not be the best answer and save some lives, then save no lives and do nothing."
The bill passed the committee unanimously. That could change if a provision shifting money from another program supporting independent living for foster children, remains in effect. Lawmakers say the independent living program should be removed from the bill.