Summary
Creates programs within Homeland Security to train investigators on trauma and to provide direct assistance to victims of human trafficking.
What problem does this solve?
Investigators working on human trafficking cases often experience trauma, and victims need specialized support. This law creates training for investigators to handle trauma and a program to give direct help to victims.
Who does this affect?
- Homeland Security Investigations employees
- Victims of human trafficking
- Law enforcement officers
What does this law do?
Establishes the IMPACTT program for investigators
Creates the Investigators Maintain Purposeful Awareness to Combat Trafficking Trauma (IMPACTT) Program within Homeland Security Investigations to support employees.
Establishes the victim assistance program
Creates the Victim Assistance Program within Homeland Security Investigations to provide support and services to victims of crimes.
Requires trauma training for employees
Mandates outreach and training for Homeland Security employees to recognize signs of burnout, stress, and trauma from working with human trafficking victims.
Recruits specialists to support victims
Requires the Victim Assistance Program to hire forensic interview specialists and victim assistance specialists for each Homeland Security Investigations office.
Provides emergency items for victims
Allows the Victim Assistance Program to buy emergency items for victims, such as food, clothing, transportation, and temporary shelter.
Requires annual reports to congress
Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to report to Congress each year on the number of trainings provided and the number of victims assisted by the new programs.
Prohibits new funding
States that no additional money is authorized to be appropriated to carry out the act, meaning existing funds must be used.
What is the real world impact?
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Supports law enforcement mental health
Provides training and resources to Homeland Security employees to help them cope with the trauma they experience when working on human trafficking cases, which can improve job performance and reduce burnout.
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Improves services for trafficking victims
Creates a dedicated program to provide direct assistance to victims, including emergency items like food and shelter, and ensures they are interviewed by trained specialists in a way that reduces further trauma.
When does this start?
This law takes effect on October 1, 2024, and includes multiple deadlines and an expiration date.
Annual report to congress
The first report to Congress is due no later than one year after the law is enacted, and then annually after that.