On May 22, the House approved, 412-0, legislation (H.R. 2399) that would strengthen the prosecution and punishment of those who smuggle illegal immigrants into the United States.
Sponsored by Rep. Baron Hill (D-IN), the bill would allow a sentence of life imprisonment for immigrant smuggling involving aggravated sexual abuse. Maritime provisions would be strengthened: vessel operators involved with human trafficking and the transportation of persons for illegal sexual activity would be subject to a prison term of up to ten years.
