The Senate unanimously passed an anti-human trafficking bill Thursday, approving legislation that differs significantly from a House proposal and putting Massachusetts closer to offering new tools to deal with horrific sex and labor trafficking cases.
The Senate bill increased the mandatory minimum sentences for human trafficking from 15 to 20 years, added new criminal penalties for organ trafficking, and imposed fines up to $1 million on businesses found engaging in human trafficking.
Sen. Mark Montigny, the lead sponsor of the bill, said he was pleased to see the bill advance “after years of frustration and pessimism.” He said he was confident it would finally become law.
Montigny, a New Bedford Democrat, has filed the bill for the past six years. It has passed in the Senate before, but never made it through both branches. Senators said it’s likely headed for a six-member conference committee, which would be charged with producing a single bill.
“I really think for the first time both branches are determined to get this done,” Montigny said. “I feel very strongly we won’t have a break down in conference.”
In June, the House unanimously passed an anti-human trafficking bill that would give prosecutors new tools to target prostitution and forced labor networks. Attorney General Martha Coakley has also pushed lawmakers to pass human trafficking legislation.
During debate in the Senate Thursday, Montigny said he was “sad” for the victims of human trafficking that it took so long to pass. He said it is time for Massachusetts residents to realize human trafficking occurs in this state so more people can be vigilant about stopping it.
“We need to convince people in every neighborhood of this commonwealth that this is going on,” Montigny said. “Some of the most horrendous cases have been in wealthy suburbs.”
The Senate adopted an amendment instituting a $1,000 fine for so-called “Johns” convicted of a first-time offense. Senators said they hope the stiff fines will convince individuals involved in soliciting prostitutes that they contribute to human trafficking.
Both the House and Senate bills include so-called "safe harbor" provisions that would allow juveniles under 18 to avoid prosecution in certain cases if a judge determines they were victimized by trafficking.
The Senate bill also provides state-funded social services to victims of sexual exploitation or forced labor.
If signed by Gov. Deval Patrick, Massachusetts will join 47 other states with trafficking laws already on the books. The governor of Hawaii recently signed a trafficking law.
Mass. Senate passes anti-human trafficking bill - Fall River, MA - The Herald News
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