Council Member Ramirez proposes budget amendment to combat human trafficking in Houston

Houston City Council made significant strides in addressing human trafficking during its recent meetings on June 3 and 4, 2025. A key resolution was the approval of a budget amendment proposed by Council Member Ramirez, aimed at funding two attorneys and one paralegal to combat human trafficking in the city. This initiative comes in response to alarming statistics that label Houston as one of the worst cities in the United States for human trafficking, with over 300 illicit massage businesses operating within its borders.

Tom Broyles, representing the nonprofit Elijah Rising, emphasized the urgency of the situation, sharing his experiences in tracking human traffickers and highlighting the need for dedicated legal resources to tackle this hidden crisis. Council Member Ramirez echoed Broyles' sentiments, noting that this budget amendment is a crucial step toward addressing the enforcement of violations related to human trafficking.

In addition to the human trafficking discussion, the council also heard from Tahir Charles, an elected official from the Water Control and Improvement District, who offered his facility for hurricane safety and raised concerns about the accessibility of public meetings for working-class residents. He also inquired about the allocation of funds for the homeless and housing in the context of hurricane preparedness.

The council's commitment to addressing these pressing issues reflects a broader effort to improve community safety and support vulnerable populations. As the city prepares for upcoming events like the World Cup, the need for public awareness and proactive measures against human trafficking remains critical. The council's actions signal a determination to confront these challenges head-on, fostering a safer environment for all Houstonians.