U.S. Rep. Troy Nehls representing Texas' 22nd Congressional District | Official U.S. House headshot
U.S. Rep. Troy Nehls representing Texas' 22nd Congressional District | Official U.S. House headshot
Congressman Troy E. Nehls and Congresswoman Madeleine Dean, alongside U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Cory Booker, have reintroduced the Strengthening Child Exploitation Enforcement Act in Washington, D.C. The proposed legislation aims to address and close loopholes in existing child sexual abuse statutes to ensure offenders are held accountable.
"Any existing loopholes in United States federal law that allow child predators to escape justice must be closed immediately," stated Congressman Nehls. He emphasized his commitment to the cause as both a father and a former sheriff.
Congresswoman Dean remarked, “As lawmakers, we have the solemn duty of protecting our nation’s children from kidnapping and sexual exploitation." She noted current legal loopholes that let offenders evade prosecution and the bill's potential to close those gaps.
Senator Cornyn highlighted the importance of holding perpetrators accountable, noting, “Perpetrators who attack our children must face consequences for their heinous actions.” Senator Booker urged for quick action, stating, “I urge my colleagues in both chambers to pass this critical legislation so we can better protect children from exploitation and sexual abuse and provide justice for victims.”
The bill seeks to implement recommendations from the Department of Justice's 2023 National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction. It proposes amendments to close several legal loopholes:
- Clarifying kidnapping laws to include deception of a child’s guardian.
- Covering international travel for the purpose of child sexual abuse.
- Addressing the laws around causing a child to commit a sexual act.
- Including attempted offenses in the sexual contact statutes.
The legislation has been cosponsored by Representatives Tom Tiffany, Don Davis, and Barry Moore. It has gained support from numerous organizations, including the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies, Major County Sheriffs of America, Rights4Girls, and the National District Attorney’s Association.
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