Senator Arthenia L. Joyner, District 18 — Press Release

Senator Joyner's Bill On Human Trafficking Passes 2nd Committee

TAMPA - Legislation sponsored by Senator Arthenia Joyner (D-Tampa) increasing protection for victims of human trafficking unanimously passed the Senate Criminal Justice Committee on January 12. This is especially poignant in light of January being Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

SB 80 creates tools for law enforcement to more effectively identify victims of human trafficking at no cost to the state, especially in emerging professional areas such as massage therapy where the crime appears to be growing.  Many of Florida’s communities have a number of massage therapy facilities that appear to be offering services beyond the standard fare, and are open for business until midnight and beyond.

The bill will provide for more effective identification and verification of licensed massage therapists by requiring these individuals to have in their possession a valid license issued by the Florida Department of Health, as well as a government issued identification.

“This change makes it clear that the State of Florida will protect any person at risk of becoming a victim of human bondage or being forced to engage in illicit sexual activities,” said Sen. Joyner. “The legislation creates vitally important protections for these victims.”

 Senator Joyner’s bill next heads to the Senate Budget Committee for a hearing.

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