The Oklahoma House of Representatives has approved legislation updating language in state statutes from "child prostitution" to "child sex trafficking."

Rep. Jeff Boatman, R-Tulsa, authored House Bill 3450 to remove language he called outdated and technically incorrect.

"There is no such thing as a child prostitute, plain and simple," Boatman said. "When a child is in that dangerous situation, they are a victim, not an instigator. By updating this language throughout Oklahoma statutes, we can ensure we are using language that adequately reflects the circumstances."

Boatman thanked Karen Smith, the executive director of the Oklahoma Coalition Against Human Trafficking, for working with him on the bill.

“Terminology may seem like a small thing. However, words matter," Smith said. "It is essential that we talk about the real and horrific crime of human trafficking in language that expresses that people are valuable and are not willing participants in their victimization. After working for many years to change terminology in the State Statue from child prostitution to child sex trafficking, the Oklahoma Coalition Against Human Trafficking is thrilled to see this small but very important distinction in the law and look forward to the difference it will make in the lives of those we serve.”

HB3450 passed the House unanimously and is available for consideration in the Senate, where it is authored by Sen. Darrell Weaver, R-Moore.