Secretary of State Tre Hargett to launch Tennessee Businesses Against Trafficking program
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WMC) - Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett announced on Monday the launch of the new Tennessee Business Against Trafficking (TBAT) program.
TBAT was passed in 2023 and it engages corporations and private entities in voluntary efforts to identify, prevent, and combat human trafficking in communities across Tennessee.
“Tennessee has some of the toughest laws in the entire nation against human trafficking, and once again, with the legislature’s support, Tennessee is leading the ongoing fight to protect victims and families through this program,” said Secretary Hargett. “I am grateful to the General Assembly, our coalition partners, and to the Tennessee business community for their effective, committed partnership as we all continue working together to end human trafficking once and for all.”
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation reported that human trafficking is the second-fastest growing criminal industry in the United States behind drug trafficking. It’s also been reported that human trafficking has occurred in all 95 Tennessee counties.
“Unfortunately, human trafficking has become an issue we are all too familiar with in Tennessee and across the nation,” said State Sen. Dawn White. “We must all continue to do our part to stop it; I appreciate Secretary Hargett and his team for their commitment to this innovative resource that will help businesses identify potential criminal activity and save lives.”
Each participant of TBAT will install a zero-tolerance policy, participate in training, public awareness, education campaigns, encourage employees to participate, and share practices that effectively combat human trafficking.
“Through Tennessee Businesses Against Trafficking, businesses will be effective partners in the ongoing fight against trafficking crimes,” said State Rep. Debra Moody. “While we have made considerable progress in Tennessee, we must all continue to do our part and stand with victims, survivors and their families.”
Click here for more information on TBAT and how to get your business involved.
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