FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 21, 2014 

Hudson Votes to Reduce Human Trafficking

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08) released the following statement after voting yesterday in favor of a series of bipartisan anti-human trafficking bills, which would increase protection for the victims of human trafficking, hold buyers and sellers engaged in sex trafficking accountable for their crimes, and streamline law enforcement resources:

“Human trafficking and sex slavery are horrific tragedies that destroy lives and plague communities all over the world,” said Hudson.  “Last week, I hosted a summit on this very issue to raise awareness in our community about this practice and discuss ways that we can unite as a community to put an end to this egregious crime.

“It was clear from our discussion that we need to refocus our efforts and update our current laws to ensure that our communities, including local law enforcement officials and prosecutors, are given the appropriate tools and resources to protect the most vulnerable in our society, provide assistance to victims, and apprehend and punish traffickers. I was very proud to support today’s bipartisan legislation to do just that and I will continue to explore ways to protect the innocent victims of sex trafficking and bring those who buy and sell children to justice for their despicable actions.”

Last week, Rep. Hudson hosted a Summit on Human Trafficking at the Harris Alumni Center at UNC Charlotte.  This summit focused on ways to reduce human trafficking in our local communities while providing necessary assistance to victims. The summit featured a panel of local activists, including a law enforcement officer, nonprofit groups, a UNC Charlotte professor and a survivor of human trafficking.

To learn more about the bipartisan package of anti-human trafficking bills, please click here.

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