New Jersey Assembly Bill A1190

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires Attorney General to establish Human Trafficking Unit in Department of Law and Public Safety.

Impact

The implementation of A1190 has the potential to significantly improve how human trafficking cases are handled across New Jersey. By establishing a dedicated unit, the bill aims to ensure that there is consistent coordination among various state and local agencies, such as the Departments of Labor, Health, and Human Services, as well as law enforcement. Additionally, by providing a formal structure and dedicated personnel, the state can more effectively mobilize resources and enhance awareness campaigns that educate the public on human trafficking, thus potentially leading to an increase in reported cases and prosecutions.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1190 aims to establish a Human Trafficking Unit within the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety. The bill mandates the Attorney General to oversee the creation and functioning of this unit, which will include at least one designated Human Trafficking Coordinator. The primary responsibilities of the Human Trafficking Unit will encompass prosecuting human trafficking cases, assisting counties in investigations and prosecutions, and informing victims about available resources and support services. This initiative represents a concerted effort by the state to combat human trafficking more effectively by centralizing and enhancing resources dedicated to this issue.

Contention

While the bill has supportive elements, there could be contention surrounding how the creation of this unit impacts existing agencies and their current protocols for handling such cases. Critics might argue that the establishment of the Human Trafficking Unit could lead to overlaps in responsibilities among existing departments, or raise concerns about the adequacy of training provided to law enforcement to handle the complexities of human trafficking investigations. Additionally, ensuring that the unit operates effectively and consistently reports its progress to the Governor and Legislature will be crucial to maintaining transparency and accountability.