Committee advances two-year pilot to fund certified human-trafficking programs with possible $10 million cost

Senator Reinhardt presented Senate Bill 13 79, which would create a two-year pilot program administered by the Attorney General to provide direct funding for certified human-trafficking agencies. Reinhardt said the state now provides no direct funding to certified agencies and that those organizations are often asked to help victims without dedicated resources.

When the chair asked about cost, Reinhardt acknowledged a cited $10,000,000 figure and said the state is in a budget crisis that may require adjustments; he said the committee could change the appropriation amount and that, if funds are not available, the bill could at minimum create a revolving fund. Reinhardt also said five programs are currently certified through the Attorney General's office — three urban and two rural — and the appropriation would target agencies that completed certification.

The committee advanced the bill (8 ayes, 0 nays). Reinhardt asked members to provide input on the actual dollar amount and characterized the proposal as an honorable use of state funds to help victims.

The measure will move to the floor, and the sponsor indicated he would continue to work on the appropriation amount and implementation details.