Governor Gavin Newsom recently expressed his support for a proposed law in California aimed at increasing penalties for those who solicit sex from minors aged 16 and 17. This legislation, known as AB 379, originally sought to make such solicitation a felony. However, the bill faced significant changes after Democrats in the state Assembly removed the felony charge for these age groups, sparking controversy.
In a statement, Newsom emphasized the need for consistent legal treatment of sex predators, insisting that all individuals who solicit minors should face felony charges, regardless of the minor’s age. “The law should treat all sex predators who solicit minors the same — as a felony, regardless of the intended victim’s age,” he stated.
It is notable that Newsom, a Democrat, has taken a stand on this issue before a bill reaches his desk. His involvement in this legislative matter highlights his commitment to strengthening penalties for sex crimes against minors, even when it puts him at odds with some members of his party.
The bill aimed to criminalize loitering with the intent to purchase sex and to enhance existing laws that already classify paying for sex with minors under 16 as a felony. Currently, California law imposes harsher penalties for sex trafficking minors under 18. However, during a recent public safety committee hearing, Democrats insisted that Assemblymember Maggy Krell, who sponsored the bill, remove the felony charge for soliciting 16- and 17-year-olds in order for the proposal to be considered.
This decision drew criticism from various quarters, with some lawmakers questioning why protections for minors were being compromised. Assemblymember Tom Lackey, a Republican from Palmdale, voiced his concerns during the hearing, asking, “So why are we protecting the predator?”
In response to the backlash, Democratic leaders defended their decision and indicated that they would hold further discussions on the topic in the future. The controversy surrounding this bill reflects broader discussions about the legal treatment of sex crimes and the protection of minors in California.