This bill amends the existing law governing the Commission on Human Trafficking within the Division of Criminal Justice in the Department of Law and Public Safety. It expands the commission's responsibilities to include a specific focus on the human trafficking of women and children of color. The commission is now tasked with studying the social and demographic risk factors that make these groups vulnerable to exploitation, identifying strategies to prevent or reduce such trafficking, and enhancing support services for victims. Additionally, the commission is required to make legislative recommendations as appropriate.

The bill also clarifies the quorum requirements for the commission, stating that a majority of the members constitutes a quorum for performing its duties, rather than a majority of the authorized membership. This change aims to ensure that the commission can continue its work without interruption, even in cases of member absence or vacancy. The bill emphasizes the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by women and children of color in the context of human trafficking and aims to strengthen the commission's ability to respond effectively to these issues.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:17B-237