May 13, 2021

Callahan Supports Bill Aimed at Helping Victims of Sex Trafficking

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Hartford – During Wednesday’s House Session, State Rep. Patrick Callahan (R-New Fairfield) spoke in support of a new law that will help victims of sex trafficking crimes and expand legal protections for minors. In addition to supporting the bill, Callahan offered an amendment to strengthen its intent, which was incorporated into the underlying language.

“The legislation favorably acted on today will broaden the scope of certain definitions of sex trafficking, allowing the courts greater flexibility in considering evidence and assessing harsher penalties to those convicted of such crimes,” explained Callahan, who served as a Probation Officer and Chief Probation Officer for just under 30 years. “It’s incredible how criminals know the laws so well, which is why I took an opportunity to make the bill better during debate.”

While the bill was being discussed on the House Floor, Callahan offered an amendment that will charge the Trafficking In Persons Council to provide legislative recommendations to curtail and increase punishments for “on-line grooming.” Grooming is a term used to describe the activity taken place in order to coerce a minor into a sexual act or a physical meeting. Callahan is optimistic that the council will produce a mechanism that will further protect minors by making it harder for bad actors to contact them.

The amendment was adopted by a voice vote, which historically symbolizes consensus among the chamber.

“Innocent children are too often the victims of sex trafficking operations and related crimes. The on-line world can be a dangerous place for youngsters, so it’s critical that we establish state laws that discourage potential predators in engaging in on-line discussion, chats, or photo sharing,” said Callahan. “I appreciate that this concept was taken up in a bipartisan fashion and commend my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for supporting the amendment I put forth, and the underlying bill.”

The legislation will head to the Senate for its action. The Senate must act on the bill before Wednesday June 9, for it to move to the Governor’s desk. For additional legislative updates, you can go to Callahan’s website at RepCallahan.com.

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