Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Late last night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Representative John James’ (MI-10) Global Anti-Human Trafficking Enhancement Act. The bill passed the House by voice with unanimous approval. Now the Senate must take up this important measure. This is Rep. James’ fifth bill to pass through the House in less than two full years in office, signifying his commitment to commonsense legislating.

Rep. James issued the following statement regarding the passing of this legislation:

“Human trafficking must be eradicated everywhere—God’s children are not for sale. I am thrilled that this bill passed the House and will give us new tools to confront the scourge of modern-day slavery. It will empower our law enforcement to liberate the oppressed and captive. I’m grateful that every colleague of mine in Congress agrees with this necessary bill, and I urge Chuck Schumer and the Senate to take this bill up promptly.”

Specifically, the bill authorizes the Diplomatic Security Service, or DSS, to investigate transnational human trafficking. DSS currently investigates trafficking when there is a connection to travel document fraud. Its counter-trafficking program has been lauded by the Department of Justice, advocacy groups, and others for its victim-centered approach and proficiency in bridging linguistic and cultural gaps. Differences in language and culture are commonly the greatest barriers to successfully prosecuting transnational trafficking. DSS is the most widely internationally represented U.S. law enforcement agency, with agents operating in over 270 foreign posts. This legislation is a commonsense reform that empowers DSS to fully leverage its capabilities to fight human trafficking and modern slavery.   

The bill:

• Authorizes the Diplomatic Security Service to investigate transnational human trafficking. 
  • A human trafficking violation is transnational when part of the offense occurs outside of the United States or involves one or more foreign nationals. 
• Requires the State Department to report to the relevant congressional committees on the effectiveness of these authorities, the percentage of cases opened up under these authorities, and whether DSS’s current resources are sufficient to carry out these new authorities. 
• Sunsets these authorities after 7 years.

Passing five bills as a freshman congressman is very difficult, but Representative James’ commitment to working on commonsense legislation remains his commitment as he looks to continue this monumental freshman term serving his constituents.

More information on the bill as well as bill text can be found HERE.

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