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California Democrats Restore Felony Charges for Clients of 16- and 17-Year-Old Prostitutes After Governor Newsom Criticism

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Updated May 10, 2025, 01:37 AM

California Democrats have reinstated felony charges for clients who engage in sexual activities with 16- and 17-year-old prostitutes following criticism from Governor Gavin Newsom and Republican lawmakers. The California Assembly advanced legislation making it easier for prosecutors to file felony charges against individuals who purchase sex from older teenage minors. This legislative move reverses earlier proposals that had reduced penalties to misdemeanors, which had sparked national outrage and concern among adult sex workers about increased police intervention. The debate over the appropriate punishment for those who pay for sex with minors has been contentious, with Democrats and Republicans arguing for weeks at the state capitol. Sacramento County Sheriff and former state Democrat lawmaker criticized media coverage that appeared to support lesser penalties for such offenses. The restored bill reflects a shift in California's approach to addressing teen sex trafficking and prostitution involving minors aged 16 and 17.

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