Mann Act
/ˈman akt/US Law
noun
An act passed by the U.S. Congress in 1910 making it a federal offence to transport or induce a woman or minor across interstate boundaries for criminal sexual activity (specifically prostitution).
- The Act's original intent was to prosecute those who forced young women into prostitution through violence and intimidation. However, broad interpretation of its original wording (prohibiting transportation ‘for immoral purposes’) had until a 1986 amendment by Congress permitted prosecution of unmarried couples who cross from one state to another. The original Act referred to ‘any woman or girl’ but was amended in 1978 to include male juveniles..
Origin
Early 20th century; earliest use found in The New York Times. From the name of James R. Mann, U.S. Congressman, who introduced the legislation + act.