This week, Wisconsin became the latest state to add a law that enlists commercial vehicle drivers in the fight against human trafficking.
On Wednesday, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers signed AB 22 into law.
The law will require all Wisconsin technical colleges that provide commercial motor vehicle driver education courses to include training on recognizing and reporting signs of human trafficking.
During a hearing on the bill in March 2019, Wisconsin truck driver James Massey told assembled lawmakers that he’s seen many instances of human trafficking in his state. “I’ve actually seen women jump from one truck to the next,” he said.
Evers said, “Human trafficking impacts all of Wisconsin’s 72 counties, and truck drivers can play a critical role in reducing and preventing this crime… Truck drivers are on the front line of this issue as they not only reach every corner of our state, but often travel across state lines. By ensuring that they are vigilant and have the knowledge and training to recognize human trafficking, we can protect vulnerable individuals from continued exploitation.”
Eleven states including Kansas, Colorado, and Ohionow have legislation on the books to bolster human trafficking training for truckers.