Messmer Column: Recognizing and Preventing Human Trafficking

Local Sources- On this week's Messmer Column, State Senator Mark Messmer (R-Jasper) discusses recognizing and preventing human trafficking.

With the arrival of May, thousands of visitors will be traveling to the state throughout the summer months.

While most folks will be looking to enjoy their time, some have dangerous ulterior motives, including human trafficking.

During the legislative session, the Indiana General Assembly overwhelmingly passed a bill to help fight human trafficking in the state.

House Enrolled Act 1196 allows the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles to require someone applying for a commercial driver's license to attest to watching an instructional video on recognizing and reporting human trafficking.

Truckers will get a sticker for their window to signify they are compliant with the new law.

Truck drivers across the country are often best able to recognize human trafficking as they navigate our nation's highways.

House Enrolled Act 1196 ensures that all Indiana truckers are able to understand the signs of human trafficking and hopefully help be partners in reducing its prevalence across our state and country.

This legislation was supported by organizations like Truckers Against Trafficking and the Indiana Motor Truck Association to combat human trafficking.

The bill passed the General Assembly with bipartisan support, was signed by Gov. Eric Holcomb on May 1, and will go into effect on July 1.

Hoosiers are asked to remain vigilant of human trafficking this year to help rescue victims and bring criminals to justice.

As always, feel free to contact my office directly with your questions and concerns by email at [email protected] or by phone at 800-382-9467.