Recent developments in Los Angeles have reignited discussions around a California legislative reform that many argue has led to unexpected outcomes. This comes in the wake of reports highlighting the sex-trafficking of minors in one of the city’s infamous red-light districts.

Back in July 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom approved the “Safer Streets for All Act” (SB 357), a piece of legislation that prevents police from arresting individuals suspected of loitering for the purpose of prostitution. Advocates of the law believed it would reduce the harassment faced by suspected sex workers, particularly transgender women, and curb the profiling of women and minorities.

Governor Newsom, a Democrat with potential ambitions for a 2028 presidential run, stated at the time that the law aimed to end the “disproportionate harassment of women and transgender adults.” However, he also left the door open for future legislative revisions to address “any possible unintended consequences.”