Senate Panel Takes Up Human Trafficking Prevention Bills
Legislation that would disqualify truck drivers from working in the industry if they are involved in human trafficking will be considered by the Senate Commerce Committee on Aug. 2.
The bill, sponsored by committee Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.), would apply to commercial drivers who commit a felony as a result of human trafficking. The measure meant to address trafficking prevention is among the final issues the panel will take up before leaving Washington for the summer recess.
“Human trafficking takes on many different forms and the perpetrators use a variety of tools to recruit and control their victims. Victims of human trafficking are often lured with false promises of well-paying jobs, stability or education,” Thune said July 12.
Another bill the panel will consider would designate a human trafficking prevention coordinator, as well as expand the authorities of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s outreach and education program. This would pertain to human trafficking prevention activities. Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) is a co-sponsor with Thune.
“By providing training to recognize and report trafficking, we can empower them to prevent this heinous crime across the country,” Klobuchar said, in a statement.
