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The need for more concerted efforts against human trafficking in the United States remains alive and well. Despite certain misconceptions, human trafficking takes place in all 50 states. It's not just a distant problem that only happens in remote or low-income communities. There's no doubt that awareness about human trafficking among the general public, training for workers in key occupations, and sting operations/arrests made by law enforcement each have a role to play. However, laws on the books need to be made, amended, and tightened in order to combat and end human trafficking as well. Clearly, the current laws are not enough. If they were, human trafficking would not be on the rise in the United States. Thankfully, lawmakers in the Nevada Congress are working to help put an end to human sex trafficking.

A closer look at new measures by the Nevada state legislature

In Nevada, Senate Bill 89 has been proposed for human sex traffickers who make children their targets. Sadly, the rise of children being targeted for human trafficking is very well confirmed. Under Senate Bill 89, perpetrators who make contact with kids for the purpose of trafficking them, or make contact with law enforcement members posing as kids in sting operations, will do hard time. This legislation would mean that human sex traffickers who go online to target underage kids will face Class A felonies. They'll be subject to that, along with a life sentence in prison and a five to 15-year minimum parole time. Under this law, traffickers will see worse penalties when they target younger children as well. GOP state Sen. Heidi Seevers Gansert stresses the severity of child sex trafficking. Gansert explained that many young kids find themselves targeted by predators at extremely early ages. The state lawmaker likewise revealed that Senate Bill 89 shall increase the application window for the Victims of Crime Fund from two years to four years. The Victims of Crime Fund plays a critical role in survivors getting access to childcare, education, housing, and other necessities. Ultimately, because of the essential healing process after escaping human trafficking, Gansert explained survivors deserve more time to submit their applications for greater assistance.

A much-needed change

Nevada's Senate Bill 89 can play a positive role in protecting children, holding human traffickers accountable, and aiding survivors. That's if it passes into law. Frankly, every state across the country could benefit from updating its own anti-human trafficking laws.