Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared January 2024 as Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a move he claims signals the state's ongoing commitment to eradicate the growing epidemic of human trafficking. In his proclamation, Abbott stressed the importance of education and stern penalties for those involved in this despicable trade. "Each year, Texas dedicates the month of January to raise awareness about human trafficking and honor the hard work of so many people and organizations striving to end this scourge," said Abbott, as stated in the Office of the Texas Governor.
In support of this initiative, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is rallying residents to learn more about the risks of human trafficking. The governor underlined his administration's work to increase resources for survivors and to establish harsher punishments for offenders, calling on all Texans to rally behind these efforts., according to the Office of the Texas Governor.
Fighting this blight also extends to the state's roads with Texans being offered a specialty license plate reading "Stop Human Trafficking". Unveiled in 2023, these plates serve a dual purpose, increasing public awareness and supporting youth survivors through funds generated from sales. These funds go toward essential services such as assessment, treatment, shelter, and support, as reported by the Office of the Texas Governor.
Anyone who believes they have witnessed human trafficking should contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 (TTY: 711). You can also text “233733” to the hotline or go to the Hotline Web Chat.
