California Democrats initially block child trafficking bill but later revive it after backlash and intervention from Newsom

California Democrats on the Assembly Public Safety Committee initially blocked a bipartisan bill to increase penalties for child sex trafficking.
The bill's failure prompted outrage, especially from Republicans, and intervention from Governor Newsom to revive it.
Democrats cited concerns about longer sentences and disproportionately affecting marginalized groups in initially opposing the bill.
After backlash and negotiations, Democrats held another vote and advanced the bill to the Appropriations Committee.
The bill aims to make child sex trafficking a serious felony with longer sentences, including potential life in prison.