Bill seeks to reduce global sex trafficking demand

U.S. Reps. Ann Wagner (R-MO), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Dan Crenshaw (R-TX) introduced this week legislation that seeks to reduce demand for sex trafficking worldwide.

The Sex Trafficking Demand Reduction Act would amend the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 to reflect the need to prevent sex trafficking by reducing the demand for commercial sex.

“The pandemic has exacerbated sex trafficking across the United States and in nations across the globe,” Wagner said. “Combating this horrific crime requires a global effort to prohibit the commercial sex trade that exploits children and the most vulnerable in our society. My legislation would ensure foreign countries take deliberate action to reduce the demand for trafficking and help us target the worldwide sex trafficking trade. Victims rely on our help during this incredibly uncertain time, and it is up to us to be their advocate in a time of great need.”

Rogers said there is nothing more horrifying than the thought of young women and children falling victim to sex trafficking.

“This heinous crime is happening right here in Eastern Washington, and we must do something to stop it,” Rodgers said. “This legislation will take an important first step by withholding assistance to foreign countries that fail to take serious action to reduce sex trafficking and hold accountable those who allow this deplorable trade to continue unabated. It’s well past time for Congress to take action. The lives of innocent women and children depend on it.”