Walberg’s Bipartisan Bill to Combat Human Trafficking Signed into Law

Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) issued the following statement after President Trump signed into law H.R. 4307, the Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act. This bipartisan legislation strengthens the Department of Labor's (DOL) ability to identify human trafficking, protect vulnerable individuals, and combat exploitation.

"Today, we took a collective step forward in addressing the scourge of human trafficking," said Rep. Walberg. "Very often, Department of Labor enforcement personnel are the first to encounter signs of human trafficking, forced labor, and exploitation; the Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act provides these employees with the tools and knowledge needed to detect and address this heinous crime. I'm proud this bipartisan legislation is now law, strengthening protections for the most vulnerable-including women and children-from exploitation."

H.R. 4307, Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act:

• Establishes guidelines to ensure DOL staff are provided needed training and equipped with sufficient tools and resources to report labor or sexual exploitation.
• Establishes a clear framework for DOL employees to make referrals and further assist law enforcement in preventing labor or sexual exploitation.
• Promotes DOL transparency and congressional oversight regarding DOL detection and response to human trafficking.

Congressman Walberg serves as the Chairman of the Education and Workforce Committee.