Mann Act

Definition

The Mann Act is a federal law passed in 1910 that made it illegal to transport women across state lines for the purpose of prostitution or debauchery, or for any other immoral purpose. Over time, its interpretation has evolved to cover various forms of sexual exploitation.

Related terms

Human trafficking: The illegal act of transporting or coercing people in order to benefit from their work or service, typically in the form of forced labor or sexual exploitation.

Prostitution: The practice or occupation of engaging in sexual activity with someone for payment; its legality varies by jurisdiction within the United States.

Civil liberties: Basic rights and freedoms that are guaranteed either explicitly identified in the Bill of Rights and Constitution, or interpreted through the years by courts and lawmakers