Bill to help human trafficking victims passes House
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 8, 2013
CONTACT: Stephanie Davenport, Public Information Officer – (360) 786-7031
Rep. Linda Kochmar – (360) 786-7898
Rep. Tina Orwall – (360) 786-7834
Bill to help human trafficking victims passes House
Strong bi-partisan legislation that furthers the progress made last year to end human trafficking was unanimously passed off the House floor March 7. House Bill 1291, which was co-sponsored by Rep. Linda Kochmar and Rep. Tina Orwall specifies that a portion of fees imposed on perpetrators of sex trafficking be made available for victims' rehabilitative services. “The commercial sex industry can happen under many circumstances. Once people, especially young adults and children, find themselves in this situation it can be nearly impossible to get out. As a state, if we can create protections for victims, while seeking accountability for human traffickers and others that perpetuate this crime, we can give victims their lives back,” said Kochmar, R-Federal Way. “I'm proud of the work we have done because it will help our communities and citizens have safer, healthier lives.” Orwall, who has worked on similar bills in the past and has helped move Washington forward in the fight against human trafficking, continues to believe more can be done. “Unfortunately, SeaTac and surrounding areas have one of the highest rates of child trafficking in the United States, so our region has been greatly impacted,” said Orwall, D-Des Moines. “My bill will give law enforcement the tools they need to combat the commercial sex industry and help these young victims out of this horrific industry so they can rebuild their lives.” 
Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov
455 John L. O'Brien Building
P.O. Box 40600
Olympia, WA 98504-0600
