TRENTON, NJ — Legislation that would expand the scope of New Jersey's existing human trafficking laws has advanced in the State Senate.

The bill, S-1989, sponsored by Senators Troy Singleton and Vin Gopal unanimously passed the Senate on June 2 by a 38-0 vote. The legislation expands the definition of human trafficking to include individuals who receive a “financial benefit” from participating in the crime but are not the operation's organizers, supervisors or managers. 

The sponsors say that the measure closes a loophole in the state's current human trafficking laws and is especially important and timely, with New Jersey set to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, given the increased risks of human trafficking that often accompany a large-scale event. The bill, they say, helps support law enforcement's efforts to combat trafficking during the global event, and beyond. 

"We've seen a disturbing uptick in human trafficking across the country and, unfortunately, here in New Jersey," said Senator Singleton (D-Burlington), who represents Bordentown in the Legislature. “By expanding the law to include those who financially benefit from trafficking, we're going after an important part of the network that enables these crimes and ensuring that they are being held accountable.”

"This legislation closes a loophole in our human trafficking laws by ensuring that individuals who financially benefit from these crimes are held accountable," said Senator Gopal (D-Monmouth). "By expanding the statute to include those who profit from human trafficking without necessarily being an organizer, supervisor, financier, or manager, we are strengthening protections for victims and reinforcing New Jersey’s commitment to combating human trafficking."

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the number of people prosecuted for human trafficking offenses has more than doubled in the past decade, highlighting the growing recognition of this issue. New Jersey is considered a "hub" for trafficking activity, given its strategic location between major metropolitan areas, making it a key target for law enforcement efforts. 

Original Article