Tough New Georgia Sex Trafficking Law Takes Effect

ATLANTA – One of the nation's toughest crackdowns on human traffickers has taken effect in Georgia.

The measure launched July 1 would increase minimum sentences for human traffickers from one year to 10 years behind bars.

It also tacks on fines of up to $100,000 for a conviction. And traffickers face at least 25 years in prison if the victim is a minor.

The law also says a person cannot be found guilty of a sex crime if it took place while that person was a victim of trafficking. Some Georgia religious groups argue that effectively legalizes prostitution.

Georgia Attorney General Sam Olens has called the law critical to address a growing problem in the state.