Wyoming Looks to End Human Trafficking - KGWN –Cheyenne, WY– Scottsbluff, NE News,Weather, Sports

Wyoming Looks to End Human Trafficking

We often associate human trafficking with countries outside the United States, but it's a very real problem here as well and it exists in all 50 states.

"The Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault recently conducted a survey with our member programs across the state who provide the direct services to victims and they overwhelmingly said that they are serving victims of trafficking," said Jennifer Zenor, Executive Director of the WCADVSA.

Representatives from international, national and state organizations against human trafficking were at the Capitol promoting the passing of House Bill 133. It's a bill that would make it illegal under state law to traffic individuals for commercial sex or forced labor.

"In Wyoming, we have pockets of migrant farm worker population. We have a high tourism industry and those tend to lend themselves to trafficking situations, both in labor and with sex," Zenor said.

Bill sponsor, Rep. Cathy Connolly(D) was on hand to remind people that it not only happens in every state, but it can happen to almost anyone.

"People from all walks of life are preyed upon by traffickers. Women trapped in brothels. Men forced to work long hours in deplorable conditions, unable to leave due to huge debts and threats to their families," Connolly said.

Wyoming is the only state that hasn't passed this law.

Representative Keith Gingery(R) says it's now imperative this legislation get passed.

"Being one of the last states, you don't want to become the safe harbor. You don't want to be a safe harbor when people realize that's a state where it's a little easier to get away with this," Gingery said.