This bill amends the responsibilities of the Commission on Human Trafficking, which operates within the Division of Criminal Justice in the Department of Law and Public Safety. The commission, composed of 15 members including various state officials and public representatives, is tasked with evaluating existing human trafficking laws, reviewing victim assistance programs, and promoting coordinated responses to support victims. The bill introduces a new requirement for the commission to investigate how human traffickers exploit online gaming and social media platforms to target children and other victims.

Specifically, the commission is now mandated to conduct research on the methods used by traffickers in these digital spaces, develop preventative solutions, and make legislative recommendations based on their findings. This addition aims to address the growing concern over the use of online platforms for grooming and exploiting vulnerable individuals, as highlighted by recent FBI investigations. The commission will continue to report its activities and recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature annually.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:17B-237