This bill establishes the Governor's Survivor Leader Advisory Council within the Department of Health 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, including a law enforcement officer and survivors of human trafficking, and is required to hold at least eight meetings per year. The Department of Health is appropriated $1 million to support the council's activities.
The council is tasked with preparing a report detailing its findings and recommendations related to human trafficking risks associated with the World Cup, which must be submitted to the Governor and Legislature within 180 days of the bill's enactment. The report will include best practices for increasing awareness, information campaigns, and recommendations for additional hotlines and public service announcements. Additionally, the Attorney General is mandated to issue guidelines for law enforcement's response to potential trafficking crimes during the event. The Commission on Human Trafficking will also play a role in monitoring the implementation of the council's recommendations before, during, and after the World Cup.