ATLANTA – State Representative Edward Lindsey (R-Atlanta) announced today the introduction of House Bill 200, which targets those engaged in the trafficking of persons for sexual servitude. This legislation increases the penalties for individuals who are found guilty of human trafficking and provides law enforcement and prosecutors additional tools to combat this cruel practice.
“Everyone knows that a society’s greatest resource is its children, and they are the ones most vulnerable to these practices,” said Rep. Lindsey. “Those that engage in human trafficking are among the lowest, most debased, persons in our society and our laws that deal with them should reflect that. In addition, those same laws should reflect the unique relationship a person under the oppression of trafficking has with criminal behavior. It is a delicate balance, but one we as legislators owe our citizens.”
HB 200 clarifies the definition of sexual servitude and expands Georgia’s forfeiture law to allow its use to combat sexual trafficking. The legislation also increases the penalties for individuals promoting underage prostitution. Additionally, this bill treats those that have been subjected to sexual servitude with compassion by providing victims a pathway out of their criminally forced servitude.
HB 200 is the result of a collaborative effort between Rep. Lindsey, Attorney General Sam Olens, the Georgia Commission on Family Violence, prosecutors, law enforcement officials, and social service advocates.
“This collaboration has produced a strong bill in the ongoing fight against sex trafficking. I look forward to working with everyone involved to ensure this important legislation receives passage,” added Rep. Lindsey.
For more information on HB 200, please click here.
Representative Edward Lindsey was elected by the Republican Caucus as their Majority Whip, the fourth highest ranking position in House leadership, on December 17, 2009. He represents the citizens of House District 54, which includes portions of Atlanta. He was elected into the House of Representatives in 2004, and currently serves on the Rules, Appropriations, Education, Ethics, Industrial Relations, and Judiciary committees.
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