According to reports, Texas has become the first state to make buying sex a felony.
The HB1540 bill was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott this past June to crack down on “johns” as opposed to cracking down on people involved with prostitution, as many of the people are often victims of sex trafficking. Reports noted the new law came about following the Texas Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force.
Texas state representative Senfronia Thompson spoke on the bill, saying, “We know the demand is the driving force behind human trafficking. If we can curb or stamp out the demand end of it, then we can save the lives of numerous persons.”
It was noted the Texas law would expand felony charges against traffickers who try to recruit minors from youth centers and treatment facilities. They will also have to pay the penalty related to paying for prostitution.
source: NBC News
