Reduce Human Trafficking through Transportation Act
Impact
The bill will significantly affect state laws concerning funding and support for transit systems and airports. By prioritizing grants to the 75 transit operators and 75 airports with the highest passenger traffic, the legislation seeks to ensure that resources are directed where they can have the most substantial impact. This is particularly critical for regions identified as having a higher prevalence of human trafficking. The measures outlined in SB2744 also mandate consultation with the Department of Transportation Advisory Committee on Human Trafficking to ensure effective distribution of funds.
Summary
SB2744, known as the Reduce Human Trafficking through Transportation Act, aims to enhance efforts against human trafficking by providing grants to transit operators and airports. With an authorization of $20 million per fiscal year through 2028, the bill establishes a grant program within the Department of Transportation specifically allocated to support awareness, education, and preventive measures related to human trafficking. The act is a response to the increasing recognition of the role that transportation systems play in facilitating human trafficking activities.
Contention
While the bill has broad support due to the serious nature of human trafficking, points of contention arise regarding the allocation of the funds and the effectiveness of grant programs. Advocates for transit equity urge for inclusion of all transit agencies, regardless of size, especially smaller operators that may not meet the largest ridership criteria yet serve vulnerable populations. Critics may argue that a focus on larger transit agencies neglects areas where human trafficking is often underreported or overlooked.
A resolution supporting the observation of National Trafficking and Modern Slavery Prevention Month during the period beginning on January 1, 2023, and ending on February 1, 2023, to raise awareness of, and opposition to, human trafficking and modern slavery.