Laurel Lee’s Bill to Improve the National Human Trafficking Hotline Gaining Traction in the House

U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee’s, R-Fla., “National Human Trafficking Hotline Enhancement Act” is gaining traction on Capitol Hill.

Lee introduced the bill, which “would require entities that contract with the National Human Trafficking Hotline to cooperate with state and local law enforcement when receiving tips through the Hotline,” back in April with U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, D-Fla., as the main co-sponsor.

Lee weighed in on the bill when she introduced it.

“Since 2007, the National Human Trafficking Hotline and its operator, Polaris, have worked together with state and local law enforcement to end human trafficking. But recently, Polaris has not communicated tips to law enforcement officials unless victims self-report. In order for the Hotline to operate effectively, there cannot be a divide between their efforts and those of law enforcement,” said Lee. “That is why I am proud to introduce the “National Human Trafficking Enhancement Act,” which would require any non-governmental organization that receives federal taxpayer dollars to operate the Hotline to notify law enforcement agencies of information communicated through the Hotline.”