Michelle Johnson highlights dangers of online platforms at Human Trafficking Prevention meeting

In a poignant session of the Louisiana House Appropriations Committee on May 6, 2025, Michelle Johnson, chair of the Human Trafficking Prevention Commission advisory board, delivered a heartfelt plea for urgent legislative action against the rising tide of online exploitation and human trafficking. Her testimony, steeped in personal experience and professional insight, painted a stark picture of the dangers lurking in the digital landscape, particularly for vulnerable youth.

Johnson recounted alarming incidents that underscored the ease with which children can be exposed to harmful content and predatory behavior online. She highlighted a disturbing trend where adult materials could be ordered through food delivery apps, blurring the lines of accessibility for minors. “Just in the past two weeks, it’s intensifying,” she stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Her observations were not merely anecdotal; they were grounded in her work as a state expert in human trafficking, where she has witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of online grooming and exploitation.

The committee listened intently as Johnson shared a harrowing story of a young girl who, after receiving a smartphone, fell victim to a predator who manipulated her into sharing explicit content. The girl’s experience culminated in a crisis that nearly led to self-harm, a stark reminder of the psychological toll such encounters can take on children. “Our phones are now the white van,” Johnson warned, drawing a parallel between traditional kidnapping fears and the modern threats posed by technology.

Johnson urged the committee to consider legislative measures that would impose stricter controls on online content and enhance protections for minors. She called for a reevaluation of algorithms that govern what children can access, suggesting that these digital gatekeepers need to be more vigilant in safeguarding young users. “This is definitely an entry point,” she asserted, advocating for a proactive approach to combat the growing menace of online trafficking.

As the meeting progressed, the gravity of Johnson’s testimony resonated with the committee members, highlighting the critical need for legislative action to protect Louisiana’s youth from the pervasive risks of the digital age. The discussions underscored a collective responsibility to ensure that technology serves as a tool for connection rather than a gateway to exploitation. The committee's response to Johnson's impassioned call for action could shape the future of child safety in Louisiana, as they consider the implications of her insights in crafting effective policies.