West Central PA News

Sens. Dan Laughlin and Cris Dush have announced their plans to introduce legislation aimed at updating existing safe harbor laws to better protect sexually exploited children. Laughlin emphasized the importance of treating these children as victims rather than criminals, stating, “Minors should not be charged with prostitution; these children should be recognized as victims and provided with the necessary support services to help them recover from their exploitation.”

Dush, the prime sponsor of Act 39 of 2023, highlighted the prevalence of sex trafficking even in local neighborhoods, stressing the need for legislative action. He expressed his appreciation for Laughlin's efforts in addressing the issue and working together to strengthen safe harbor laws, saying, “I look forward to continuing to work with him to ensure these reforms are enacted.”

The proposed legislation will encompass all criminal offenses related to the sexual exploitation of children to ensure comprehensive assistance and protection for all victims. County agencies will play a crucial role in identifying and assisting sexually exploited children, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the program.

Confidentiality and safety of the children will be prioritized in the plan to prevent further harm. Alternative interventions and support mechanisms will be established to keep victims out of the juvenile justice system and address the root causes of their exploitation.

Laughlin and Dush aim to create a system that better safeguards the rights and well-being of sexually exploited children, recognizing them as some of the most vulnerable members of society. The legislators are committed to enacting these important reforms to provide better protection and support for victims of sexual exploitation.