Major Victory: Protecting Our Kids from Human Trafficking

I’m proud to share that earlier today, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors took a critical step in the fight against human trafficking — we passed my Board Letter to support AB 379: the Survivor Support and Demand Reduction Act.

This is more than just legislation — it’s a statement of our values and a promise to protect the most vulnerable in our community.

Under current California law, a predator could purchase sex from a 16- or 17-year-old and face only a misdemeanor. That’s unacceptable. AB 379 changes that.

Here’s what this new law does:

• Makes it a felony to buy sex from anyone under 18

• Establishes a Survivor Support Fund, paid for by offenders, to provide housing, counseling, job training, and trauma recovery for victims

• Reverses dangerous loopholes created by past legislation that enabled traffickers and punished victims

San Diego is a known hotspot for human trafficking, and the average age a victim enters into trafficking here is just 16. This law ensures we no longer treat exploited minors as willing participants — but as victims who deserve justice and support.

We’ve sent a clear message: Our kids are not for sale. Not in San Diego. Not anywhere.

Thank you for standing with me in this fight — and I’ll continue to keep you updated as we push for more victories that protect our community.

By San Diego County District 5 Supervisor Jim Desmond | April 23, 2025

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