The U.S. House of Representatives today unanimously passed two Noem-backed bills that aim to better combat human trafficking in South Dakota and across the country.

“The fight against trafficking will require action from each of us,” said Noem.  “We can all do more to educate ourselves and our communities about the red flags associated with trafficking. At the same time, I’ll be working to help carve a pathway for survivors to access housing, tackle new job opportunities and find hope. And with today’s bills, we help equip our law enforcement community with the tools they require to go after those who buy and sell our children. The bottom line is that until our kids are safe, traffickers are put out of business, and those who exploit others can be brought to justice, we have to keep getting folks involved and looking for innovative solutions.”

More specifically, the House passed the Noem-backed H.R.2200, Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Act. This legislation reauthorizes resources that are used to prevent human trafficking, protect victims, and prosecute traffickers.

Additionally, the House passed H.R.2480, Empowering Law Enforcement to Fight Sex Trafficking Demand Act, which Rep. Noem cosponsored as well. This legislation would expand eligibility for Department of Justice grants to allow law enforcement agencies to qualify for federal funding for the development and execution of programs that fight sex trafficking.

Endorsed by President Trump, both bills now go to the Senate for consideration.