H.R. No. 1578

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, Concerned citizens from throughout the Lone Star State are observing April 27, 2011, as Anti-Human Trafficking Day at the State Capitol to heighten awareness of this increasingly prevalent crime; and

WHEREAS, Human trafficking is the modern manifestation of the ancient scourge of slavery; domestic and international victims of human trafficking are often lured by the false promise of a better life, only to find themselves trapped in the illicit sex or labor industries; and

WHEREAS, The occurrence of human trafficking within our state and nation has led to cooperative efforts between the Texas Legislature and numerous other government agencies to combat this atrocity; laws have been enacted to protect victims and punish traffickers, a task force has been created, and mandatory law enforcement training has helped better prepare first responders; and

WHEREAS, Organizations across the state have played an important role in making people aware of human trafficking through direct service, advocacy, research, and community education; among the groups performing this invaluable service are Children at Risk, the Texas Catholic Conference, the Baptist General Convention of Texas, Redeemed Ministries, and the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas; and

WHEREAS, It is truly appropriate that a day be set aside to draw attention to the critical issue of human trafficking and to honor the notable groups who are striving to assist victims and put an end to this horrific practice; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby recognize April 27, 2011, as Anti-Human Trafficking Day and commend the organizations and individuals working to eliminate human trafficking in Texas and beyond.

Thompson

______________________________ Speaker of the House

I certify that H.R. No. 1578 was adopted by the House on April 27, 2011, by a non-record vote.

______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House