Se Colorado News

U.S. Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-03) has introduced a new bill in the U.S. House of Representatives aimed at curbing human trafficking. The legislation, H.R. 9755, titled the “Human Trafficking Fingerprint Background Check Protection Act of 2024,” mandates fingerprint-based background checks for owners and employees of massage wellness spas to mitigate the risk of human trafficking and enhance public safety.

“Massage wellness spas have been identified by law enforcement as one of the primary locations for criminals engaged in human trafficking. My legislation will require all owners and employees of these establishments to undergo fingerprint-based background checks. This simple but effective measure will help close off one of the primary avenues used by traffickers to exploit children and other vulnerable individuals. By implementing this safeguard, we can take a stand to protect families and ensure these businesses aren’t operating as shady fronts for criminal enterprises,” said Congresswoman Boebert.

Douglas County Commissioners Abe Laydon, George Teal, and Lora Thomas expressed their support in a joint statement: “As commissioners of Douglas County, we wholeheartedly support Rep. Lauren Boebert’s introduction of critical legislation that targets human trafficking. This effort is vital to the well-being and future of our community. Human trafficking is an issue that touches every corner of the nation, and this legislation provides important tools to combat it, ensuring the safety of our citizens. H.R. 9755 reflects a deep commitment to the people of Douglas County, Colorado, and communities across the nation.”

“I have been deeply encouraged by Representative Boebert’s willingness to take meaningful action on issues of importance to Douglas County,” added Commissioner Abe Laydon.

The full text of Rep. Boebert’s Human Trafficking Fingerprint Background Check Protection Act of 2024 is available online.

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