In March 2020, the government of Ontario had announced a $202 million increase in funding for anti-human trafficking strategies in the province.

The bill was introduced to the Legislative Assembly by Sylvia Jones, Progressive Conservative MPP for Dufferin—Caledon and Solicitor General of Ontario, in late February 2021.

[3] The Ontario Association of Children’s Aids Societies announced their support for the bill, stating that it was "a step forward for raising awareness.

"[4] The bill received criticism from some human rights advocates, who argued that vulnerable sex workers would face heavily increased police surveillance and abuse.

[8] Academic Robyn Maynard stated that "we know that police are not a source of safety for Black women even when they need support" and argued that "Bill 251 further endangers Black, Asian and sex working communities because it expands the power, scope and funding for the policing of our communities under the guise of protection.