By Clare Chambers, EDITORIAL INTERN

A new house bill has been passed in Florida creating progress in the fight against human trafficking. House Bill (HB) 7063 Anti-Human Trafficking was passed by Governor Ron DeSantis on May 13th, 2024.

Why Does This Matter?

Florida is ranked third behind California and Texas on the national scale for human trafficking and most cases involve the sex trafficking of children. In 2023, there were nearly 2,100 cases of human trafficking reported within the state with a staggering number of over 1,600 cases including children.

What does HB 7063 Ensure?

• Continuation of the development and coordination of state and local law enforcement, as well as social services, response to fight trafficking.

• Requires public facilities and establishments to display human trafficking awareness signs. These signs will include the National or Florida Human Trafficking Hotline number while being displayed in both English and Spanish.

• Prohibits minors from being employed by adult entertainment establishments in any capacity.

Any violation of these policies includes penalties and punishments for all establishments. Along with this bill, Governor DeSantis approved $4.9 million in the 2024-25 budget to expand access to emergency beds for victims as well as providing additional support staff. He also established a $900,000 grant opportunity through the Florida Department of Children & Families (DCF) to enhance training for law enforcement officers who respond to human trafficking cases.

How This Aligns with Our Mission

At One Bread Foundation, Inc. we focus on building awareness and providing grants to help put an end to human trafficking nationwide. House Bill 7063 aligns with our mission and goals through anti-trafficking legislation. Creating local awareness on the issue of human trafficking provides hope for the victims we fight for. Human trafficking is an issue that requires a response at a government and human level. It requires individual knowledge and

action. Involving local communities and establishments can be one of the most effective ways to combat human trafficking.

We Urge You to Get Involved

Take Florida’s lead in creating change for sex trafficking victims. Share our mission, volunteer, or donate today to help those in rehabilitation across all 50 states. We also remember those who have lost their lives due to human trafficking, their stories drive us to continue our work.