Attorney General Masto Announces Bill to Combat Sex Trafficking Signed Into Law


June 6, 2013

Carson City, NV – Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto announced today that the bill that holds pimps accountable and protects the victims of sex trafficking was signed into law by Governor Brian Sandoval.

    “Nevada is taking a stand to protect the lives of sex trafficking victims,” said Masto. “I am extremely proud of the collaborative work of supporters, stakeholders, and elected officials that went into this law.  I remain committed to the fight against this rapidly growing crime that deprives children and young adults of their human rights.”

      Assembly Bill 67 establishes the crime of sex trafficking of children and adults, and makes victims eligible for state assistance and allows them to sue their traffickers. The law will take effect on July 1, 2013.

        General Masto was joined by more than 45 supporters at the bill signing.

          The new law will change the current pandering statute to the sex trafficking statute while using the federal definition of sex trafficking to increase penalties by one sentencing level.  Those convicted would have to register as a sex offender, and their assets will be seized, liquidated, and provided as relief to the victims. Restitution would be mandatory with the ability to bring a civil cause of action and the victim’s testimony could be used to prosecute the case at trial.

            For more information on the Attorney General’s Human Trafficking campaign and support for victims, click here . For the bill details, click here.   For background on the bill, click here .

              ###