Exploited Children Aren't Criminals! California Needs Safe Harbor Laws
When a child is sexually abused and exploited they should be given the help and support they need—NOT treated like a criminal.
But right now, a lack of strong Safe Harbor laws in California means that sexually exploited children are being arrested throughout the state for prostitution.
More horrifying still, in 2010, 13 percent of the children arrested for "prostitution" in California were 14 years old or younger.
Unfortunately, a bill that would have created a Safe Harbor law in California was vetoed by Governor Brown just last year.
We cannot continue to treat children who have been forced into prostitution like criminals, and we cannot let that veto be the last word on this urgent issue.
Take action today to tell the California Legislature to protect exploited and abused children and continue working to enact Safe Harbor laws in California.
Dear [Representative],
When a child is sexually abused and exploited they should be given the help and support they need—NOT treated like a criminal.
But right now, a lack of strong Safe Harbor laws in California means that sexually exploited children are being arrested throughout the state for prostitution.
[Your comment will be added here]
Unfortunately, a bill that would have created a Safe Harbor law in California was vetoed by Governor Brown just last year.
Please, don't give up on the efforts to pass Safe Harbor legislation in California.
We cannot continue to treat children who have been forced into prostitution like criminals, and we cannot let that veto be the last word on this urgent issue.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
