Originally published: . Volume 12, No. 5. Source pages: 6.
Senator Ronnie Johns' measure, SB 170, that creates the office of human trafficking prevention, passed the Senate with amendments by a vote of 37 yeas and 0 nays.
The present law establishes the crime of human trafficking and makes it unlawful to use another person to provide any labor or service having economic value through fraud, force, or coercion or to facilitate or benefit from the prohibited activities. If the victim is under age 21 and providing some commercial sexual activity, the use of fraud, force, or coercion is not necessary.
Current law provides for human trafficking victims services plans for children and adults. And it creates the 17-member La. Human Trafficking Prevention Commission (commission) in the office of the governor and a 23-member advisory board for the purpose of coordinating human trafficking prevention programs and integrating delivery of services to human trafficking victims.
The proposed law retains present law and, effective July 1, 2021, creates the office of human trafficking prevention (OHTP) in the governor's office for the purpose of coordinating resources of public and private entities engaged in providing assistance to human trafficking victims. Places the commission within OHTP.
It also provides for an executive director of OHTP appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate and adds the executive director to the commission. Provides for the executive director to employ necessary staff.
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