Anti-Human Trafficking Bill Finally Passes Senate, Clearing Way for Lynch Vote

WASHINGTON — The Senate has unanimously passed legislation to help the victims of sex trafficking.

The vote came after the bill had been stalled for weeks in a partisan dispute over abortion. The gridlock also delayed a confirmation vote on President Barack Obama's attorney general nominee.

A deal to resolve the abortion issue was reached earlier this week. The bill passed 99-0 Wednesday afternoon.

It would increase law enforcement resources to go after sex trafficking perpetrators, and would create a new fund aimed at helping victims.

With the trafficking bill out of the way, the Senate will vote Thursday on Loretta Lynch's attorney general nomination.

IN-DEPTH

• Senate Deal on Trafficking Clears Way for Loretta Lynch Vote

• Obama: Loretta Lynch Delay 'Embarrassing'

— The Associated Press