WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released a statement on Wednesday after the U.S. Senate passed the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act, which will ensure that websites – like Backpage.com – that knowingly facilitate sex trafficking can be held accountable, and to ensure justice for victims of sex trafficking. Murphy is a cosponsor of the bill, which was introduced by U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.).

“Companies that are knowingly facilitating sex trafficking should be held accountable in court,” said Murphy. “But under current law, websites like Backpage.com – which advertise sex with children – are free from prosecution. The Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act will give survivors their day in court, and help prevent bad actors from exploiting more victims.”