Anti-trafficking task force put on fast track to approval

WHEATON—The William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection reauthorization Act of 2008 (TVPRA) was moved quickly. The bill was introduced to Congress on Dec. 10, 2008, and received the signature of President George Bush on Dec. 23, 2008.

In less than two weeks, HR 7311, was moved to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 2008 through 2011 for the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000. It enhances earlier measures to combat trafficking in persons, and for other purposes. The bill received bipartisan support.

The Unites States Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on Migration Chairman Bishop John C. Wester hailed the move, highlighting the value of leadership on this human rights matter.

His sentiments were reported in a Dec. 24, 2008, edition of CathNewsUsa. According to the report, he said, “Trafficking in human persons is a horrific crime and should be combated with all the legal means and resources available. The enactment of this legislation is another important step toward eradicating this scourge, both in the United States and globally.”

The JPIC Office has also joined with the Franciscan Federation and Franciscan International in support of legislation to combat the abusive conditions involved in human trafficking.