Abolish Trafficking Reauthorization Act of 2022
Jan 5, 2023
Statute: 136 Stat. 6199
Became law: Jan 5, 2023
Jan 5, 2023
Statute: 136 Stat. 6199
Became law: Jan 5, 2023
Summary
Renews funding for programs that prevent human trafficking, help survivors, and punish traffickers, including those who commit crimes online.
What problem does this solve?
Funding for programs to fight human trafficking was about to run out, and online crimes were making the problem worse. This law gives more money to these programs until 2027 and creates new ways to fight online trafficking and help survivors.
What does this law do?
Extends funding for anti-trafficking programs
Reauthorizes funding for multiple grant programs, airport personnel training, and the Domestic Trafficking Victims' Fund through fiscal year 2027.
Establishes dedicated labor trafficking investigation teams
Requires the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security to each create a team of at least 10 agents assigned exclusively to investigate labor trafficking.
Creates a national strategy to fight cybercrime
Directs the Attorney General to develop a national strategy to reduce cybercrimes against individuals, coordinate investigations, and increase federal prosecutions.
Prevents traffickers from avoiding payments through bankruptcy
Amends bankruptcy law to prevent individuals who have injured someone through human trafficking from having that debt erased in bankruptcy.
Removes barriers for survivors to get identification
Prohibits federal agencies from charging fees or requiring parental consent for trafficking survivors under 18 or homeless youth to get a copy of their government-issued ID.
Funds state child welfare agencies to help child victims
Authorizes $4 million per year through 2027 for grants to help state, local, and Tribal child welfare agencies identify and respond to child trafficking victims.
Who does this affect?
- Survivors of human trafficking
- Federal and state law enforcement agencies
- Child welfare agencies and service providers
What is the real world impact?
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Continues funding for anti-trafficking efforts
Provides money for grants and programs that were set to expire, ensuring that law enforcement, service providers, and victim support systems can continue their work to combat human trafficking.
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Strengthens the response to online crimes
Creates a national strategy and provides more resources for investigating and prosecuting cybercrimes, recognizing that technology is often used to exploit victims.
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Improves protections for survivors
Makes it easier for survivors, especially minors, to get identification and ensures their personal information is kept private. It also prevents traffickers from using bankruptcy to avoid paying victims.
When does this start?
This law takes effect on January 5, 2023, and includes several deadlines for agencies to create new programs and reports.
Labor trafficking investigation teams
Within two years of enactment, the FBI and Department of Homeland Security must establish teams dedicated to investigating labor trafficking.
Data collection status report
Within 280 days of enactment, and every two years after, the Attorney General and HHS Secretary must report on the status of data collection efforts.
Report on funding for cybercrime victims
One year after the National Academy of Sciences releases its cybercrime report, the Office for Victims of Crime must begin submitting annual reports on funding for cybercrime victims.