Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has given the green light to a new law with the aim of intensifying the fight against human trafficking throughout the state. The law notably mandates that employees in adult entertainment establishments, including strippers, must be at least 21 years old. The legislation, signed off on Monday, garnered mixed opinions, with proponents affirming it will shield younger adults from perilous situations, while critics argue it infringes upon constitutional freedoms.
As reported by NBC Miami, the new regulation, HB 7063, inked at Granada Church in Coral Gables, blocks the hiring of individuals under the age of 21 in adult venues. Furthermore, it amplifies efforts to exhibit human trafficking awareness signs in locations that might act as trafficking hotspots, such as emergency rooms, rest areas, and massage parlors. The law, which comes into effect on July 1st, will notably increase penalties for establishments that fail to comply.
Supporting the reform, Charles Bender, CEO of Place of Hope, said, "I'm glad they're talking about it. I'm glad they're doing something about it," in a statement obtained by WPBF 25 News. Place of Hope, an organization that aids children and families afflicted by abuse and trafficking, views the adjustment as a protective measure for vulnerable populations.
However, First Amendment attorney Gary Edinger opposes the restrictions, considering them potentially unlawful. Even though some link trafficking with the adult entertainment industry, Edinger finds the argument that raising the working age will significantly impede traffickers to be baseless. "What the law basically does is require that young adults, people who are 18, 19 or 20 stay in their houses so that I guess human traffickers can't find them. So, to me, that's nonsense," Edinger expressed to WPBF 25 News while discussing a case in Jacksonville that he represents.
Additionally, the bill endorses enhancements in victim assistance, with DeSantis announcing over $4.9 million in state's budget for expanding access to emergency beds and staff for trafficking prevention efforts. This move closely follows another recent legislative directive aimed at massage establishments, which Governor DeSantis outlined earlier this month with over $1 million allocated to tackling sex trafficking.
The signing of HB 7063 is the latest in a series of moves by DeSantis' administration to confront human trafficking, including previous bills that amplified penalties for traffickers. The focus on establishments and industries potentially intersecting with trafficking reflects an ongoing commitment to eradicate this shadow in the Sunshine State.
