Washington, D.C. (January 19, 2022) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) and Congresswoman Ann Wagner (MO-02) today introduced the Sex Trafficking Demand Reduction Act to combat sex trafficking around the world and hold accountable foreign countries who fail to take action to reduce the demand for this criminal trade. 

“As a mother, there’s nothing more horrifying than the thought of young women and children falling victim to sex trafficking. This heinous crime is happening right here in Eastern Washington, and we must do something to stop it,” said Rodgers. “This legislation will take an important first step by withholding assistance to foreign countries that fail to take serious action to reduce sex trafficking and hold accountable those who allow this deplorable trade to continue unabated. It’s well-past time for Congress to take action. The lives of innocent women and children depend on it.”

Prevention efforts are essential to ending the human trafficking epidemic. This Sex Trafficking Demand Reduction Act would take steps to prevent sex trafficking by reducing the demand for commercial sex. Specifically, the bill would authorize the President of the United States to reduce or withhold financial assistance for foreign countries that do not take steps to combat sex trafficking, including prohibiting the purchase of commercial sex acts and reducing demand for participation in international sex tourism.

“The pandemic has exacerbated sex trafficking across the United States and in nations across the globe. Combatting this horrific crime requires a global effort to prohibit the commercial sex trade that exploits children and the most vulnerable in our society,” said Wagner.  “My legislation would ensure foreign countries take deliberate action to reduce the demand for trafficking and help us target the worldwide sex trafficking trade.  Victims rely on our help during this incredibly uncertain time, and it is up to us to be their advocate in a time of great need.” 

CLICK HERE to read the bill. 

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