Conn. women lawmakers backing trafficking bill

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The Permanent Commission on the Status of Women says every female member of the Connecticut General Assembly is backing a bill that would authorize the forfeiture of money and property obtained from human and sex trafficking.

The commission said it's the first time in recent memory that every woman in the legislature has joined forces to co-sponsor a bill. There are 55 female lawmakers.

Republican Sen. Toni Boucher of Wilton said women legislators should stand together on the issue, adding how this "modern day slavery" is targeting vulnerable, young women.

The legislation will be discussed at a news conference planned Tuesday at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.

The bill also stiffens penalties against those who engage in the trafficking of people, either for sex or labor.