Expands duties of Commission on Human Trafficking to include studying connection between human trafficking and illicit massage parlor businesses.
Impact
If enacted, A3875 would enable the Commission on Human Trafficking to conduct a thorough evaluation of current laws related to human trafficking and to assess how illicit massage parlors might contribute to this issue. The commission would also be tasked with reviewing victim assistance programs, thereby influencing future legislation aimed at improving support for human trafficking victims. This bill aims to promote a coordinated response among public and private resources in addressing the issue of human trafficking across the state.
Summary
Assembly Bill A3875 proposes to expand the duties of the Commission on Human Trafficking in New Jersey to include the study of the connection between human trafficking and illicit massage parlor businesses. This bill arises from concerns raised by reports such as the Polaris Project's 2018 report, which highlighted that both legitimate and illegitimate massage parlors could play a role in human trafficking. Given New Jersey's geographical position along major transit routes, the bill seeks to understand the complexities surrounding these industries and their link to trafficking activities.
Contention
Some key points of contention surrounding A3875 may involve the adequacy of the state's current frameworks for addressing human trafficking and the potential stigma associated with legitimizing scrutiny over massage parlor businesses. Stakeholders might express concerns about ensuring that any findings respect legitimate businesses while effectively targeting criminal enterprises involved in trafficking. The effectiveness of the commission's expanded duties and its ability to influence meaningful change in legislation may also be debated within legislative discussions.
Same As
Expands duties of Commission on Human Trafficking to include studying connection between human trafficking and illicit massage parlor businesses.