Sheila Jackson Lee Stop Human Trafficking in School Zones Act
Impact
If enacted, HB 10228 will raise the maximum imprisonment for violators who target minors within designated school zones to include an additional five years of consecutive sentencing on top of existing penalties. This change could have broad implications for law enforcement practices as it seeks to deter potential offenders through heightened penalties. The provisions specifically address violations such as human trafficking, coercion, and the transfer of obscene materials to minors, thus reinforcing the legislative intent to create a safer educational environment.
Summary
House Bill 10228, titled the 'Sheila Jackson Lee Stop Human Trafficking in School Zones Act', proposes significant amendments to Title 18 of the United States Code to enhance penalties for various offenses occurring in school zones. The bill aims to increase the punishment for human trafficking, coercion, and sexual exploitation of minors, specifically when these offenses are committed in areas surrounding schools or institutions of higher education. It reflects a growing concern over protecting children from crimes that exploit their vulnerability within educational environments.
Contention
The bill has sparked debate regarding the efficacy of increasing penalties as a means to combat crime, with supporters arguing that such measures are essential in deterring offenses against minors. However, opponents may raise concerns about the potential overreach of federal legislation impacting local law enforcement practices. Furthermore, discussions around the bill may touch on whether enhanced penalties alone will adequately address the systemic issues associated with human trafficking and exploitation, indicating a need for comprehensive support services alongside punitive measures.
Stop Human Trafficking in School Zones Act This bill establishes an enhanced penalty—an additional prison term of up to five years—for certain human trafficking offenses and sex offenses involving minors that occur within 1,000 feet of the real property comprising a school, school-sponsored activity, playground, or public housing facility; or within 100 feet of certain other places where children gather (e.g., a youth center or swimming pool). The additional prison term must be served consecutively with the prison term imposed for the underlying offense.
Relating to the punishment for certain criminal conduct involving trafficking of persons, the human trafficking prevention coordinating council and the human trafficking prevention task force; increasing criminal penalties.
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