[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 13 (Tuesday, January 27, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E117]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           COMBATTING HUMAN TRAFFICKING IN THE UNITED STATES

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. VIRGINIA FOXX

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 27, 2015

  Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, this week the House is considering 12 bills 
designed to fight the growing problem of human trafficking in the 
United States. These bipartisan bills will provide support and services 
to the victims of trafficking crimes and boost resources for law 
enforcement.
   According to the FBI, sex trafficking is the fastest-growing 
business of organized crime and the third-largest criminal enterprise 
in the world. More than 300,000 American children are at risk of 
becoming victims of sex trafficking annually in what is estimated to be 
a $9.8 billion industry.
   Human trafficking is modern day slavery that preys on vulnerable 
individuals, and this epidemic is not isolated to far-off places. It is 
happening every day in the places we call home.
   As we take steps at the federal level to end this despicable and 
horrifying practice, there are many organizations dedicated to helping 
victims and preventing even more people from being mistreated.
   Earlier this month in Rowan County, North Carolina, nearly 200 
supporters gathered to hear testimonies from human trafficking 
survivors as well as discuss ways to increase awareness and assist 
victims in the local community at the Triad Ladder of Hope's First 
Annual Human Trafficking Awareness Gala.
   And today I'm wearing a bracelet made from recycled soda tabs that 
was designed by Monarch, a Christian ministry that creates accessories 
as a unique way to engage in the fight against human trafficking.
   As the charm on this bracelet reminds us, there is hope that lives 
discarded can be reclaimed.

                          ____________________