Wasserman Schultz Statement on JVTA Senate Passage

Washington, DC, April 23, 2015
Throughout my career I've sought to be an advocate in government for the most vulnerable, and this bill includes a comprehensive package of items to both support survivors of human trafficking and victims of other horrific crimes while also punishing traffickers and buyers with jail time. Only comprehensive solutions, which include increased prevention efforts, will be effective in combatting the pernicious crimes of human trafficking and sexual violence.

PRESS RELEASE | April 23, 2015

Wasserman Schultz Statement on JVTA Senate Passage

Multiple Bills Authored, Supported by Congresswoman Incorporated in JVTA

U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) released the following statement today after the Senate passed the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act (JVTA) yesterday evening. Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz wrote or co-introduced three bills that passed as part of JVTA: the Rape Survivor Child Custody Act amendment, the HERO Act, and the Trafficking Awareness Training for Health Care Act, authored by Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-NC):

“I am thrilled that the Senate finally passed bipartisan legislation to address the vitally pressing issues of human trafficking, sexual assault and justice for victims. Trafficking is a very real problem in the United States, as surprising and alarming as that may seem to some. It is estimated that there are at least 100,000 American youth currently at risk for becoming victims of trafficking, and with this legislation we take a major step forward in significantly reducing that number.

“One major mechanism is the Domestic Trafficking Victims’ Fund, which will assist trafficking survivors with legal aid, law enforcement, and health services.  The bill also includes legislation I have been proud to lead in the House to provide protections for survivors of child exploitation and rape.

“This morning I spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives to urge the House Leadership to hold an up-or-down vote without delay. Congress became too distracted by sideshow politics and took too long to get this done, but we’re almost there.

“Throughout my career I’ve sought to be an advocate in government for the most vulnerable, and this bill includes a comprehensive package of items to both support survivors of human trafficking and victims of other horrific crimes while also punishing traffickers and buyers with jail time. Only comprehensive solutions, which include increased prevention efforts, will be effective in combatting the pernicious crimes of human trafficking and sexual violence.”

Background on legislation:

The HERO Act trains wounded military veterans to aid law enforcement in investigating child exploitation.

The Rape Survivor Child Custody Act encourages states to allow a woman to terminate the parental rights of a rapist.

The Trafficking Awareness Training for Health Care Act, authored by Representative Renee Ellmers and co-led by Rep. Wasserman Schultz, trains health care providers in identifying and assisting victims of trafficking.

 

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Contact:

Sean Bartlett, Sean.Bartlett@mail.house.gov

Geoff Burgan, Geoff.Burgan@mail.house.gov