AUGUSTA – State Senator Amy Volk, R-Cumberland, has introduced legislation to protect young victims of sex trafficking by changing the law so those under the age of 18 years are not charged with prostitution.

LD 512, “An Act To Prohibit a Person under 18 Years of Age from Being Charged with the Crime of Engaging in Prostitution,” has been referred to the Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety for consideration.

“Modern slavery, known as human trafficking, is a fast-growing criminal activity, even in Maine,” said Volk. “When anyone, particularly a minor, is coerced to engage in commercial sex, they are no longer acting of their own will. Our current legal system does not charge minors with prostitution, so it is time our statute reflects the acknowledgment that these children are victims in need of social services. 

“We should concern ourselves with prosecuting the pimps and johns, not teenagers who have been trapped in this lifestyle.”

LD 512 has been referenced to the Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety for consideration.