McCaul Joins Legislation to Combat Human Trafficking

Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) cosponsored the Empowering Law Enforcement to Fight Sex Trafficking Demand Act, legislation led by Congressmen Morgan Luttrell (R-Texas) and Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.), to amend the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to permit Byrne JAG program funds to be used for anti-human trafficking efforts. 

“Human trafficking is a disgusting violation of human rights and an abhorrent criminal industry that continues growing, even here in the United States,” said Rep. McCaul. “I’m honored to support this crucial legislation to provide our brave servicemen and women the resources necessary to combat this modern-day form of slavery.”

“Human trafficking affects communities across our country, and Houston, Texas is currently the top city in America for these horrific crimes. Tragically, the problem is only getting worse as cartels exploit our open border,” said Rep. Luttrell. “This crucial, commonsense legislation provides law enforcement the resources to combat the traffickers who threaten and force men, women, and children into modern day slavery. We cannot allow human traffickers to continue to run amuck in our communities.”

“I came to Congress to fight for the people of Western Pennsylvania and to make our communities safer,” said Rep. Deluzio. “I’m glad to join with Congressman Luttrell on the Empowering Law Enforcement to Fight Sex Trafficking Demand Act to get more federal resources in the fight against the scourge of human trafficking.”

Background:

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program is the primary provider of federal criminal justice funding to state and local jurisdictions. The Byrne JAG Program currently provides states and local governments with critical funding necessary to support a range of program areas, including law enforcement, prosecution and court programs, drug treatment and enforcement, crime victim and witness initiatives, and mental health programs. The Empowering Law Enforcement to Fight Sex Trafficking Demand Act adds another category to address human trafficking. 

The legislation is also cosponsored by Representatives Ann Wagner (R-Mo.), Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-Ore.), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-Fla.), Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa), Jenniffer González-Colón (R-Puerto Rico), Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas), Pete Stauber (R-Minn.), and Jake Ellzey (R-Texas).