Commentary: Florida Law Marginalizes Sex Workers and Immigrants
A Law That Fails to Protect
Florida’s HB 713, a law that went into effect in October 2020, aims to crack down on human trafficking by targeting sex workers and immigrants. However, this law is a misdirected attempt to address the complex issue of human trafficking, and instead, it will only serve to further marginalize and criminalize already vulnerable populations.
Sex Workers in the Crosshairs
The law makes it a felony for anyone to engage in the solicitation of another person for the purpose of prostitution, punishable by up to 15 years in prison. This means that sex workers, including those who are forced into the industry against their will, will be treated as criminals rather than victims. This approach ignores the reality that many sex workers are not trafficked, but rather, they are individuals who have made the choice to engage in the industry to survive.
Immigrants at Risk
The law also makes it a felony for anyone to transport or harbor an individual who is being trafficked, regardless of whether or not they are aware of the individual’s status. This provision will disproportionately affect immigrants, who are already vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. Immigrants who are trafficked or forced into the sex industry will be even more reluctant to seek help, fearing deportation and further harm.
A Failed Approach
Florida’s HB 713 is a failed approach to addressing human trafficking. It will not reduce the demand for commercial sex, and it will only serve to further marginalize and criminalize already vulnerable populations. Instead of criminalizing sex workers and immigrants, we should be working to address the root causes of human trafficking, including poverty, lack of education, and gender inequality.
A More Effective Approach
A more effective approach to addressing human trafficking would be to focus on the demand side of the equation. This would involve increasing awareness about the issue, providing resources and support to survivors, and holding accountable those who purchase commercial sex. We should also be working to address the social and economic factors that drive human trafficking, including poverty, lack of education, and gender inequality.
Conclusion
Florida’s HB 713 is a misguided attempt to address human trafficking. Instead of criminalizing sex workers and immigrants, we should be working to address the root causes of human trafficking and provide support to survivors. We must recognize that human trafficking is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive and nuanced approach.
FAQs
Q: What is the main issue with Florida’s HB 713?
A: The law criminalizes sex workers and immigrants, rather than addressing the root causes of human trafficking.
Q: How will this law affect sex workers?
A: Sex workers will be treated as criminals, rather than victims, and will face up to 15 years in prison.
Q: How will this law affect immigrants?
A: Immigrants who are trafficked or forced into the sex industry will be even more reluctant to seek help, fearing deportation and further harm.
Q: What is a more effective approach to addressing human trafficking?
A: A more effective approach would be to focus on the demand side of the equation, increasing awareness, providing resources and support to survivors, and holding accountable those who purchase commercial sex.
