Wrap: The Crime Prevention and Public Safety Committee heard testimonies Wednesday in favor of amending a bill to more completely define human trafficking.  

Joplin resident Kristy Childs, a sex trafficking survivor, runs a victim program in Kansas City.

She says the new bill will bring a better understanding about victims and their struggles.

The proposed legislation would create harsher penalties to those convicted of the crime.

No one testified in opposition of the legislation.

From Jefferson City, I'm Brian Pepoon.

Wrap: The House Crime Prevention and Public Safety Committee heard testimonies in favor of amending the state human trafficking law.

The committee suggested revisions to the proposed amendments eliminating gray areas that could confuse juries. 

Committee vice chairperson Nick Marshall wants the bill to be concise for prosecution.

Marshall says these acts are happening in Missouri and he is committed to helping.

But he says the proposed amendments are too lengthy for passage.

From Jefferson City, I'm Brian Pepoon

Wrap: The Crime Prevention and Public Safety Committee heard testimonies in favor of legislation to clearly define language used in the state's human trafficking law.

The amendments would help prosecutors charge criminals in connection with human trafficking and child prostitution.

Committee Vice President Nick Marshall says the law previously blamed the children and didn't punish their pimps.

Marshall also says he and the rest of the committee members are committed to passing the best and most complete bill possible.

No one testified before the committee in opposition to the amendments.

From Jefferson City, I'm Brian Pepoon.