January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month in Texas

AUSTIN, Texas — Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) urged Texans Wednesday to acquaint themselves and their families with the perils of human trafficking and methods to combat this abhorrent crime that afflicts Texas and the nation. Governor Abbott proclaimed January 2024 as Human Trafficking Prevention Month in Texas.

"Annually, Texas designates January to heighten awareness regarding human trafficking and acknowledge the dedicated efforts of numerous individuals and organizations striving to eradicate this blight," stated Governor Abbott. "In my capacity as Governor, Texas has augmented resources for survivors of human trafficking and heightened penalties for perpetrators to ensure maximum legal repercussions. Despite commendable strides in our battle against human trafficking, concerted efforts are imperative to educate and prevent others from succumbing to this abominable crime. This month, and every month, I encourage all Texans to familiarize themselves with the dangers and indicators of human trafficking and extend support to survivors."

Crystal Starkey, HHSC Family and Youth Services and Supports Associate Commissioner, remarked, "Preventing and effectively addressing human trafficking is a formidable task that necessitates collective action."

Texans can acquaint themselves with the following services and initiatives dedicated to combating human trafficking:

Human Trafficking Resource Center

HHSC's Human Trafficking Resource Center (HTRC) champions, aids, and funds endeavors aimed at curbing human trafficking in Texas. The HTRC connects trafficking survivors with essential resources, sanctions and endorses human trafficking prevention training for healthcare providers.

The HTRC additionally provides training for healthcare professionals and other relevant individuals on recognizing and preventing human trafficking in healthcare and social services settings, encompassing front desk staff and those closely interacting with patients. One such program is HEART, or “Hearing, Evaluating, Activating, Resourcing and Training,” a free, trauma-informed course tailored for licensed healthcare practitioners and others seeking insights into preventing or identifying human trafficking.

More information on HEART and other approved human trafficking trainings can be found here.

"Stop Human Trafficking" Specialty License Plate

Texans can contribute to the fight against human trafficking by acquiring a “Stop Human Trafficking” specialty license plate. Introduced in 2023, these plates raise awareness, provide aid to survivors, and prompt Texans to report suspicious activities to the Texas Department of Public Safety via the iWatchTexas community reporting system.

Proceeds from the plate sales bolster the Stop Human Trafficking donation account, financing housing assessments, treatment services, shelter, and support for young trafficking survivors.

Texas Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force

HHSC actively engages in the Texas Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force, a coalition comprising over 50 organizations dedicated to public education, victim identification, and ensuring the investigation and prosecution of traffickers. The task force also formulates legislative proposals to enhance the state's anti-trafficking efforts.

Individuals suspecting instances of human trafficking are encouraged to contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 (TTY: 711), text “233733” to the hotline, or engage in the Hotline Web Chat.

Additional insights into HHSC's initiatives against human trafficking can be found here.