This bill establishes the Governor's Survivor Leader Advisory Council within the Department of Health (DOH) in anticipation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will partially take place in New Jersey. The council's primary purpose is to address the increased risk of human trafficking associated with the event. It will evaluate existing laws, review assistance programs, promote coordinated responses, and develop public awareness mechanisms regarding human trafficking. The council will consist of nine members appointed by the Governor, including a law enforcement officer and individuals with experience in anti-trafficking policies or as survivors of human trafficking. The council is required to meet at least once every 45 days and will prepare a report with findings and recommendations related to human trafficking risks, to be submitted to the Governor and Legislature within 180 days of the bill's enactment.
Additionally, the bill appropriates $1 million to the DOH to support the council's activities. It mandates the development of a public awareness campaign and signage regarding human trafficking risks during the World Cup, which must be displayed by establishments already required to post human trafficking signs. The Attorney General is tasked with issuing guidelines for law enforcement's response to potential trafficking crimes during the event. Furthermore, the Commission on Human Trafficking will monitor the implementation of the council's recommendations before, during, and after the World Cup. The bill will take effect immediately and will expire upon the submission of the required report or one year after the conclusion of the World Cup, whichever is later.