[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 160 (2014), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 12945]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                           HUMAN TRAFFICKING

                                  _____
                                 

                      HON. MICHAEL G. FITZPATRICK

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 23, 2014

  Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, to many people, human trafficking seems 
like an issue a world away. But, as we're hearing tonight, the tragic 
reality is that it affects children and communities in neighborhoods 
across our nation.
  This evening, in bipartisan fashion, lawmakers are standing together 
to address the continuing need to support anti-trafficking programs and 
upgrade our nation's response to this crime--both locally and 
nationally. I have proudly cosponsored most of the bills we have 
debated tonight.
  While these bills are important, legislation alone isn't the only 
solution to stopping trafficking or abuse in our country or in the 
Bucks and Montgomery county towns across my District. It's the 
continued interaction and sharing of ideas between all stakeholders 
that will ultimately help us address this problem at all stages--from 
prevention, to counseling to prosecution.
  To that end, I am proud to represent a district that is leading the 
way in proactive and innovative efforts to end trafficking while 
supporting the individuals it affects. Groups like Network of Victim 
Assistance, Bucks Coalition Against Trafficking and Worthwhile Wear 
each contribute to the fabric of victim assistance in our region, while 
government and law enforcement organizations work side-by-side to adapt 
to the challenges presented by this crime.
  Supporting these groups and legislation like that being considered 
tonight are vital steps in the fight against trafficking. I urge my 
colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in voting for these 
measures and protecting those most in need in our communities.

                          ____________________