Rep. Juan Vargas Announces “The Child Protection Act of 2013”- Hazel’s Law
San Diego, CA (April 22, 2013) – Today, Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-51) held a press conference to announce his first bill, “The Child Protection Act of 2013”- Hazel’s Law. “The Child Protection Act of 2013”- Hazel’s Law would remove the knowledge of age requirement for child sex trafficking cases. The bill, named after Hazel C., is based on a San Diego case which was delayed while the prosecution struggled to prove the trafficker knew his victim was a minor.
“It is absolutely intolerable that, because of current law, child sex traffickers can receive a lesser sentence simply by claiming they were not aware their victim was a minor,” said Rep. Vargas. “Hazel’s Law would ensure that child sex traffickers receive the punishment they deserve regardless of whether or not they knew their victim’s age.”
“The Child Protection Act of 2013”- Hazel’s Law, is scheduled to be introduced to Congress on Tuesday, April 23, 2013. The bill is critical for the successful and timely prosecution of child sex trafficking cases. The bill would stop pitting children, like Hazel, against their traffickers, by no longer having to testify or work with authorities to gather evidence the trafficker knew their age.
Hazel shared her story at today’s press conference. “I am incredibly proud of Hazel’s strength and determination,” stated Rep. Vargas. “I look forward to introducing the bill tomorrow when I return to Washington and continuing to fight for the rights of our children.”
Vargas represents California’s 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire US/Mexico border. Vargas was elected to Congress in 2012. He represented the 40th California State Senate District from 2010-2012, the 79th California State Assembly District from 2000 – 2006 and served on the San Diego City Council from 1993 – 2000.