Florida lawmakers passed a bill in early May to create a statewide registry for johns and pimps as part of an effort to combat human trafficking.
The “Soliciting for Prostitution Public Database” would list names, addresses and pictures of those who are convicted of or who plead no contest to charges of soliciting or offering prostitution, according to Tampa Bay Times. Those listed in the database would have their names removed after five years provided they do not continue to commit prostitution crimes. (RELATED: The Reality Of Sex Trafficking At The US-Mexico Border)
The bill, which state legislators have yet to send to Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis for signing, is one of two solutions Florida lawmakers put forward in 2019 to combat human trafficking throughout the state.
This week, we helped Ava find freedom from human trafficking. #FreedomFriday #stophumantrafficking pic.twitter.com/pz8FFhor9R
— Florida Abolitionist (@FLAbolitionist) May 10, 2019
State legislators also passed a human trafficking bill that would require massage parlors, hotels and strip clubs to keep thorough records of their employees’ verified identifications.
“The human trafficking bill that ultimately passed both chambers is an example of why you do not quit until the last minute of session,” Attorney General Ashley Moody said May 10.
Florida’s efforts to combat human trafficking come partly in preparation for the state to host both the Super Bowl and WrestleMania in 2020. Both sporting events have historically served as major hubs for sex trafficking.
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