A proposal by Rep. Amy Volk, R-Scarborough, to allow courts to vacate the prostitution convictions of human trafficking victims received a unanimous, 10-0, approval in late November from the Maine Legislative Council, the panel of Republican and Democratic House and Senate leadership.

Volk’s bill had been rejected after Democrats denied it on Oct. 30 in a party line, 6-4 vote.

“I’m very happy with the outcome of today’s vote and I look forward to making the case for this legislation throughout next year’s session,” said Rep. Volk in a press release. “Human trafficking is a horrible and growing problem even right here in Maine and if even one woman has to carry a record for something that’s beyond her control, that’s one woman too many.”

“I would like to thank all those on the Legislative Council who voted in support of my bill,” added Volk.

The bill will be referred to committee for consideration in the Second Regular Session of the 126th Legislature, which runs from January through April of 2014.

Rep. Amy Volk