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Committee hears bill requiring human-trafficking education in K–12 schools
Summary
SB107 would require the Office of Public Instruction to develop instruction and activities for K–12 students and school staff to identify and respond to child and human trafficking. Proponents — including tribal representatives, survivors and advocacy groups — said education is a preventive tool; no opponents testified in person.
Sen. Susan Webber, sponsor of Senate Bill 107, told the Senate Judiciary Committee the bill "requires OPI to develop instruction for bridal, school, and high school students to identify and avoid human trafficking," and stressed the bill targets prevention and awareness in schools.
The committee heard broad support from tribal leaders, law-enforcement allies and advocacy organizations who framed the bill as a proactive prevention measure that can help identify victims early and connect them to services. Witnesses pointed to sharp increases in reported trafficking incidents and to the disproportionate impact on Indigenous communities.
Why it matters: Proponents said trafficking prevention education can help teachers, bus drivers and other school employees spot signs of…
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