.jpg)
Greetings,
Two weeks ago, I participated in the “Not in Our City” 5K run. This charitable run was established to raise awareness about sex trafficking and sex exploitation in the Twin Cities. Many of you may be surprised to learn that exploitation and trafficking are serious problems in Minnesota. In fact, a 2013 FBI report ranked Minnesota 13th in the nation for the highest incidence of sex trafficking.
Sex exploitation occurs when someone engages in commercial sexual activity. Commercial sexual activity occurs when anything of value such as money, drugs, food, shelter, rent, or higher status in a gang is given to a person in exchange for sexual activity. Sex trafficking involves a third party in a commercial sexual transaction.
Sex trafficking and sex exploitation, by their very nature, are hidden crimes whose victims often go unidentified. Assessment of the level of victimization in Minnesota is difficult, however, discussion with local law enforcement reveals sex exploitation is real and significant in our state.
Fortunately there are a number of organizations and concerned citizens that are making headway in the battle against sex exploitation and sex trafficking. Organizations like The Link and Breaking Free work with victims to break the cycle of abuse and assist in helping rebuild the lives of those affected by exploitation. These organizations, and others like them, are on the front lines fighting against this injustice.
As a lawmaker, I am proud to say that there are steps the state has taken to combat this issue as well. Back in 2011, before my time in the Legislature, Minnesota passed a Safe Harbor Law. This law decriminalized “prostitution” charges for youth under the age of 18, increased the penalties for buyers, added the term “sexual exploitation” into the state’s child protection code and created a state-wide “Safe Harbor Committee” to develop a response to this growing problem.
Just this past session, I was proud to support Erin’s Law. This bipartisan legislation allows school districts to provide child sexual abuse prevention instruction to students and training to staff. Furthermore, I was happy to support providing an additional $180,000 per year for sex trafficking prevention grants for local law enforcement agencies—bringing the annual total to $1 million.
In addition, I am excited to be working with a bipartisan group of lawmakers to strengthen Erin’s Law. We are looking into legislation that will direct the Department of Education to develop research-based curriculum and programs that prevent sex exploitation for use in our schools.
I am optimistic that these initiatives coupled with the incredible work of advocacy groups can make a real difference in the lives of those being exploited and trafficked. Ultimately, as a society, we need to remember that every human life holds intrinsic value and that each individual deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. I urge you to make a difference in your sphere of influence and also consider getting involved in this important fight.
In closing, I would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and blessed holiday season. It truly is an honor to represent you and our community in St. Paul.
For any questions, comments, or concerns regarding any issue related to state government, please feel free to contact me at either 651-296-0141 or rep.randy.jessup@house.mn.
Sincerely,
Randy