Texas House Bill HCR83

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Requesting the lieutenant governor and speaker of the house to create a joint interim committee to study human trafficking in Texas.

Impact

If enacted, HCR83 will facilitate a structured approach to understanding and addressing human trafficking through a dedicated legislative committee. This body will investigate various dimensions of trafficking, including the intricacies of forced labor and sexual exploitation that plague victims, particularly in a state recognized for its pivotal role in both trafficking inflow and prevention efforts. The committee will gather data, assess existing laws, and propose tangible recommendations aimed at aiding victims and dismantling trafficking networks.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 83 (HCR83) addresses the critical issue of human trafficking in Texas by requesting the creation of a joint interim committee. This committee will be tasked with studying the complexities of human trafficking in the state, which is acknowledged as a significant problem exacerbated by Texas' geographical and demographic factors. Human trafficking is highlighted as a multi-billion dollar criminal enterprise that ranks among the most profitable illegal activities, second only to drug trafficking. HCR83 emphasizes the urgency of the issue and the necessity for comprehensive strategies to combat it.

Contention

While HCR83 is largely aimed at improving the state's response to human trafficking, there may be potential debate regarding the adequacy of existing resources and laws to effectively support the victims. Discussions could surface around the interaction between law enforcement and victim support services, as well as the need for specialized training and cooperation among different agencies. Additionally, stakeholders may advocate for specific provisions or amendments based on their experiences working with affected populations, reflecting the diverse perspectives involved in combating this issue in Texas.