Following pressure from the California Assembly Republicans, Democrats refrained from voting on a proposed bill intended to classify the purchase of sexual services from 16- or 17-year-old minors as a felony. Instead, they suggested adding “intent” language, which reportedly lacks judicial significance, in an attempt to protect minors from sex trafficking.
Assemblywoman Alexandra M. Macedo expressed her concerns, stating, “If a 16- and a 17-year-old child cannot give consent in the eyes of the law, then why in God’s name are they not protected under the same law? How many more children will go through the trauma of being purchased by pedophiles before actual action is being taken?”
Macedo criticized efforts to rely on “intent,” arguing that it “does not carry any weight in the courtroom or bring victims of these heinous acts justice.” She insists that the sex trafficking of minors “MUST be a felony” and that those involved must face stronger deterrence.
She voiced disapproval of what she sees as the erosion of California’s public safety laws due to “appalling progressive policies,” calling for their revision to “lessen the demand for sexual exploitation of minors.” Macedo stressed the need for more stringent laws, declaring, “California does not want intent and broken promises. We demand immediate action.” She also remarked on the lack of action by the Democratic leadership in the Assembly, stating they “continue to fail the people they represent.”
Assemblywoman Alexandra Macedo serves the 33rd Assembly District, which covers Tulare, Kings, and Fresno Counties.
