Fort Worth Police and Unbound Now rescue 19 human trafficking victims at Texas Motor Speedway

The Texas Senate convened on May 9, 2025, to address several key issues, including significant advancements in the fight against human trafficking and the introduction of new appointments to the Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board.

The session began with a commendation for the efforts of Unbound Now, a nonprofit organization based in Fort Worth, which has been instrumental in combating human trafficking. A senator highlighted a recent event at Texas Motor Speedway, where the Fort Worth Police Department, in collaboration with Unbound Now, successfully intervened to free 19 victims of human trafficking. Of these, eight victims will receive care at a rehabilitation facility in Fort Worth, while the remaining eleven will be transferred to other organizations due to space limitations. The senator emphasized the importance of these efforts, noting that they represent tangible progress in the ongoing battle against human trafficking in Texas.

Following this discussion, the session transitioned to the introduction of the "Doctor of the Day," Dr. Richard Young, a board-certified family physician from Fort Worth. Dr. Young was recognized for his contributions to the medical community and his affiliation with various hospitals in the area. His presence was welcomed as a valuable addition to the Senate proceedings.

The meeting also included a message from Governor Greg Abbott, who sought the Senate's advice and consent on several appointments to the Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board. The nominees included Tony M. Mark Luna Jr. from Lubbock, Clayton A. Ripley from Austin, and Stephanie L. Robinson from McKinney.

In procedural matters, a motion was made to suspend Senate Rule 7.12, allowing for the consideration of several bills during the session. The motion was adopted without objection, paving the way for the Senate to proceed with its legislative calendar.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Texas Legislature's commitment to addressing critical social issues while also managing routine appointments and legislative processes. The collaborative efforts in combating human trafficking were particularly highlighted as a significant achievement, reflecting the ongoing dedication of state officials and community organizations.