Change to Indiana law on sex trafficking victims wins OK

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Indiana legislators have approved changing state law so that those younger than 18 won’t be prosecuted for prostitution if they were a victim of human trafficking.

Senators voted 49-0 on Monday to approve the bill that earlier cleared the House by a 98-0 vote. The measure now goes to Gov. Mike Pence for his consideration.

Bill sponsor Sen. Randy Head of Logansport says children in such situations should be treated as victims since they often face violence and intimidation by those who exploit them.

The bill would also require any police agency who detains a possible human trafficking victim younger than 18 to contact the Department of Child Services so they can receive help in avoiding a return to such circumstances.