Standing for Survivors: Why AB 1656 Matters
On February 26, 2026, Crime Victims United submitted a letter of support to the California State Assembly Public Safety Committee, chaired by Nick Schultz, urging an AYE vote on Assembly Bill 1656, authored by Juan Alanis.
At its core, AB 1656 is about something simple but powerful: continuity.
What AB 1656 Does
The bill amends California Penal Code section 1050 to expressly recognize that cases involving:
Human trafficking
Sexual exploitation of a child
Extortion
may qualify for a limited finding of good cause when the assigned prosecutor is engaged in another proceeding.
In practical terms, this allows for a narrowly confined continuance of no more than 10 court days. It is not an open door to delay. It is a measured safeguard designed for some of the most complex and sensitive prosecutions in our justice system.
The Reality in California
Human trafficking remains one of the most pervasive forms of exploitation in our state. In 2024 alone, California reported:
1,733 trafficking cases
3,603 identified victims
These numbers likely underrepresent the true scope of the crime. Trafficking thrives in silence. Survivors often endure psychological manipulation, coercion, debt bondage, and threats against themselves and their families. Many are minors. Many are afraid. Nearly all carry trauma that does not disappear when the courtroom doors open.
Why Continuity Matters
For more than forty years, Crime Victims United has advocated for crime victims and public safety across California. We have seen firsthand that the path to justice does not end with an arrest. For survivors, the court process itself can feel overwhelming.
In trafficking and exploitation cases, prosecutors invest substantial time building trust with victims who may be deeply hesitant to engage with authority. That trust is not procedural. It is human. It is earned conversation by conversation.
When that relationship is abruptly disrupted due to scheduling conflicts, especially at a critical stage of proceedings, the impact can be significant. For vulnerable victims, particularly minors, continuity provides reassurance and stability. It can mean the difference between participation and withdrawal. Between testimony and silence.
AB 1656 recognizes this reality. It aligns statutory procedure with the lived experience of survivors while maintaining firm safeguards and a clearly defined time limitation.
Justice That Sees the Whole Picture
Effective prosecution and victim-centered justice are not competing values. They are partners. One without the other leaves gaps where harm can linger.
AB 1656 strengthens both.
Crime Victims United respectfully urges lawmakers to support this measure and stand with survivors across California. When we protect continuity in these cases, we protect something deeper than scheduling. We protect trust. And trust, once built, deserves to be preserved.