When abuse can be hidden, so can victims. The consequences of sex trafficking

Rep. Jim Walsh, R-Aberdeen, and Rep. Hunter Abell, R-Inchelium, speak out against Senate Bill 5093—a measure that repeals the crime of concealing birth and prevents coroners from investigating stillbirths, abortions, and premature infant deaths. Why does it matter? Because lives are at stake.

The lawmakers warn that the bill strips prosecutors of vital tools used to pursue human traffickers, pimps, and abusers—those who exploit women and children. While supporters claim it promotes “dignity in pregnancy loss,” Walsh and Abell argue the reality is far more troubling. They say it erases critical oversight in cases involving abuse, coercion, or violence—undermining investigations and protecting perpetrators instead of victims. By removing legal safeguards and weakening accountability, the bill risks shielding serious crimes from exposure.

“This law was about transparency, accountability, and shining light into the darkest corners of society,” Walsh says. “We didn’t need to erase it—we needed to enforce it better.”

Despite Republican opposition, the bill passed. But the fight to protect victims and bring traffickers and abusers to justice is far from over.