Requests the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services to enact policies relative to truant children who may be trafficked.
Impact
If enacted, SR88 would direct the Department of Education to take proactive measures in locating these vulnerable populations among truant students. This would involve developing strategies to contact these children and address their specific needs through appropriate services. Such services might include mental health support, substance use treatment, and medical care, thereby contributing to a comprehensive approach to preventing human trafficking among minors.
Summary
Senate Resolution 88 urges the Louisiana Department of Education to implement policies aimed at identifying and providing assistance to truant children who may be victims of human trafficking. The resolution highlights the correlation between truancy and the risk of trafficking, emphasizing that children who are frequently absent from school often face increased vulnerabilities. This relationship is supported by research from the United States Department of Education, which indicates that such children may also have experienced prior abuse or neglect.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding SR88 appears to be supportive among legislators and advocacy groups that focus on children's welfare and protection from exploitation. Proponents of the resolution recognize the urgency to address the issue of human trafficking among youths, particularly in vulnerable communities. However, discussions may arise regarding the resources required to implement such policies effectively and ensure that the educational environment is conducive to the needs of students at risk.
Contention
Notable points of contention could arise around the capacity of the Department of Education to effectively enact and enforce the proposed policies, considering the already limited resources available for addressing issues related to truancy and child protection. Additionally, discussions may focus on whether the measures proposed are sufficient or if they address the larger systemic issues surrounding trafficking and student welfare, such as poverty, lack of family support, and educational inequity. The resolution suggests a move toward a more engaged educational framework but also raises questions about legislative reach and the integration of educational and child welfare policies.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health, the Department of Children and Family Services, and the office of the governor to study voluntary universal home visiting for all families with young children in the state of Louisiana.
Provides for the duties of the Department of Children and Family Services regarding victims of child sex trafficking. (1/1/23) (EN +$1,943,975 GF EX See Note)
Requests the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Criminal Justice, the Louisiana Department of Education, and the Louisiana Supreme Court to transmit truancy reports to the Senate Select Committee on Women and Children.
Requests the Department of Children and Family Services to report to the legislature on the impact and success of the department's guidelines on care setting decision making for children under age six.
Requests the Senate Select Committee on Women and Children to conduct research to ascertain the efficacy of the program available and funds allocated to meet the needs of the children of the state.
To urge and request the Louisiana Department of Health, Department of Transportation and Development, and Department of Revenue, office of alcohol and tobacco, to post human trafficking awareness posters.