Groups representing internet companies are warming to legislation seeking to reduce online sex trafficking, which they had previously opposed.

The Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act seeks to amend federal law to enable prosecution of online companies that knowingly allow users to advertise for illegal sex services, the Washington Post reported.

The bill was inspired by several court cases brought against Backpage.com, an online listing service that hosts advertising for prostitution, including child prostitution. The company had successfully argued that the federal Communications Decency Act shields it from criminal prosecution and civil lawsuits because it was not responsible for how third parties use the site. http://wapo.st/2ArcB6K

Internet groups originally opposed changes sought by lawmakers, arguing they were too broad and would greatly increase the likelihood that lawsuits could be brought against online companies. But after revisions were made clarifying that only providers who knowingly assist in illegal acts were liable, the Internet Association announced it would support the legislation.

"Important changes made to SESTA will grant victims the ability to secure the justice they deserve, allow internet platforms to continue their work combating human trafficking, and protect good actors in the ecosystem," IA CEO Michael Beckerman said.

The Computer & Communications Industry Association praised the revisions, but stopped short of an outright endorsement.

"The bill, while improved, still includes, for example, an overbroad, knowledge standard that would inadvertently sweep in providers of core Internet services and hold them liable for criminal conduct of which they do not know and cannot control," CCIA CEO Ed Black said.

"We should ensure that any legislation is well focused and thereby more effective by allowing compliance resources to be devoted to stamping out unlawful activity online, and not discourage companies from continuing efforts to police for unlawful and abusive activity," he added.

SESTA has been introduced in the Senate while similar legislation has been proposed in the House.

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