California Democrat admits voting against anti-child trafficking bill was a mistake.
A Democrat Assemblymember’s Regret Over Blocking Bill to Combat Human Trafficking
In a recent turn of events, a Democrat California Assemblymember, Liz Ortega, expressed regret for abstaining from a crucial vote earlier this week. Alongside five other Democrats on the Public Safety Committee, Ortega blocked a bill aimed at making human trafficking of minors a serious felony. This decision has sparked controversy and disappointment among advocates for child protection.
The bill, which had received unanimous support from the Democrat-controlled state Senate, aimed to keep repeat offenders behind bars for longer periods. However, the committee chair, Democrat Assemblyman Reggie Jones-Sawyer, opposed passing the bill, leading the other Democratic voters to abstain as well. This move drew outrage from the audience, with victims of human trafficking breaking down in tears.
Realizing the gravity of her decision, Ortega took to Twitter to admit her mistake. She tweeted, “On Tuesday, I made a bad decision. Voting against legislation targeting really bad people who traffic children was wrong. I regret doing that and I am going to help get this important legislation passed into law.”
On Tuesday, I made a bad decision. Voting against legislation targeting really bad people who traffic children was wrong.
I regret doing that and I am going to help get this important legislation passed into law.— Assemblymember Liz Ortega (@AsmLizOrtega) July 13, 2023
Governor Gavin Newsom, a California Democrat who supports the bill, expressed surprise at the committee’s decision. He emphasized his commitment to combating human trafficking and assured that further action would be taken. Republican state Sen. Shannon Grove, who has been advocating for the bill, met with Jones-Sawyer to discuss the matter, but no final decision has been reached yet.
Despite the setback, there is hope for progress. Democratic party leadership has convened to address concerns within their caucus and explore options for a forced vote. Californians and the nation are closely watching this issue, urging swift action to protect vulnerable children.
Hank Berrien contributed to this report.
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