What does a "Safe Harbor" law provide for minors involved in prostitution?

A "Safe Harbor" law is designed to protect minors who are victims of prostitution or human trafficking from prosecution for activities that may be considered criminal in nature. Instead of treating these minors as offenders, the law recognizes their status as victims who often have been coerced or manipulated into such situations due to circumstances beyond their control, such as exploitation or lack of support.

By protecting them from prosecution, these laws emphasize that the focus should be on the needs of the minors, offering them the help, support, and services necessary to recover and reintegrate into society safely. This approach aligns with a growing recognition of the importance of treating youths involved in sex work as victims rather than criminals, which is essential for helping them escape exploitative situations and preventing future occurrences.

Other options, while related to broader practices surrounding child welfare and human trafficking, do not accurately reflect the intent behind "Safe Harbor" laws. For instance, while legal representation might be helpful, it is not specifically guaranteed by these laws. Criminalizing actions would contradict the purpose of the law, and mandatory reporting pertains to different statutes and responsibilities.