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There are certain issues that go beyond politics, beyond petty disagreements, and the scourge of human trafficking in this country is certainly one of them. Policymakers continue to look for ways to stop it, and to find and protect its victims.
Last week, Sen. Jon Husted, R-Ohio, announced he is part of a bipartisan effort to put in place measures that should strengthen that effort. Along with Sen. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., and U.S. Reps. Tim Walberg, R-Mich., and Lucy McBath, D-Ga., Husted is introducing the Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act. It would direct the Department of Labor to train its employees to identify trafficking and refer suspected trafficking crimes to law enforcement.
Frankly, it is a bit of a surprise such a program has not already been in place.
"We must rescue victims from abuse and stop traffickers from preying on vulnerable teens, children, women and men," Husted said. "Department of Labor employees are on the ground conducting workplace inspections, and they need to be able to spot human trafficking behavior in real time. That's why our bill would equip DOL employees with the education and training necessary to quickly recognize trafficking and report it to law enforcement."
In Ohio alone law enforcement agencies reported 334 human trafficking cases in 2024, involving 509 victims.
As lawmakers work toward improving the ways federal officials can spot trafficking, the rest of us should study up on the signs, too. Keep your eyes open. If you spot something suspicious, report it.
The Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act will likely help many victims.
Federal officials and members of law enforcement must know, however, they are not alone in their vigilance.