Dear Chairman Hoeven and Vice Chairman Udall:
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce supports S. 982, the “Not Invisible Act of 2019,” which the Committee is expected to mark up on November 20. This bill would enhance the ability of tribal communities and the federal government to combat human trafficking of Native Americans and Alaska Natives.
S. 982 would establish an advisory committee on human trafficking composed of law enforcement, tribal leaders, business representatives, and service providers to make recommendations to the U.S. Department of the Interior and Department of Justice on combating human trafficking among native populations. It would also create a Human Trafficking Prevention Coordinator in the Bureau of Indian Affairs to coordinate human trafficking prevention across federal agencies.
This bill emphasizes a government commitment to partner with the private sector and local law enforcement to gain a better understanding of how human trafficking affects Native Americans and Alaska Natives. The advisory committee’s policy recommendations, in conjunction with the Human Trafficking Prevention Coordinator, would highlight best practices and focus on trafficking prevention and recovery for victims.
The Not Invisible Act represents a positive step towards eradicating human trafficking. The Chamber urges the Committee on Indian Affairs to expeditiously report this bill to the full Senate.
Sincerely,
Neil L. Bradley
cc: Members of the Committee on Indian Affairs
