Commercially sexually exploited children.
The impact of AB 2207 is significant in that it aims to enhance the protection and support systems for children who are, or at risk of becoming, victims of commercial sexual exploitation. The bill mandates a structured approach to identifying and documenting CSEC and calls for counties to develop specific procedures to locate children missing from foster care expeditiously. Furthermore, through increased training for social workers and probation officers, it seeks to improve the overall understanding and ability to respond appropriately to the needs of at-risk children, recognizing the complexities and traumas involved in their situations. The law is a response to the alarming statistics that suggest a high percentage of CSEC have prior involvement with the child welfare system.
Assembly Bill No. 2207, introduced by Assemblymember Eggman, amends Section 16501.35 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, specifically addressing the issues surrounding commercially sexually exploited children (CSEC). This legislation builds upon existing laws that mandate county child welfare agencies and probation departments to implement protocols aimed at identifying children at risk of commercial sexual exploitation. The bill outlines a requirement for the State Department of Social Services to develop model policies, procedures, and protocols to better assist counties in these efforts, with an implementation deadline set for January 1, 2020. This initiative is part of a larger response to the growing concern regarding human trafficking in California, which is a leading state for such crimes.
The general sentiment around AB 2207 appears to be proactive and supportive, with a clear emphasis on safeguarding vulnerable populations. Advocates for children's rights, social service providers, and legislative sponsors regard the bill as a necessary step forward in tackling the challenges faced by CSEC within California's child welfare framework. There is also recognition among stakeholders of the critical need for implementing best practices that ensure a trauma-informed approach to helping affected youth, although some stakeholders express concerns regarding the implementation and effectiveness of such programs given existing challenges, including staff turnover and adequate resource allocation.
Notable points of contention surrounding AB 2207 revolve around the practical implementation of the proposed policies and the challenges faced by local agencies. Several counties have reported difficulties in developing and enacting the mandated interagency protocols, with systemic issues such as high staff turnover rates and the lack of appropriate placements for CSEC complicating the situation. Additionally, while the bill allocates significant funds for CSEC programs, critics highlight that there has been insufficient transparency regarding how these funds have been utilized or assessed for effectiveness. The outcome of this legislation will depend not only on the statutory requirements but also on the commitment of counties to adapt and address these identified challenges.