A bipartisan bill sponsored on Jan. 22 by U.S. Rep. David Valadao (R-CA) would incentivize employers in specific industries to complete human trafficking awareness training.
The Human Trafficking Awareness Training Recognition Act of 2026, H.R. 7234, which is cosponsored by U.S. Rep. Troy Carter (D-LA), would establish an annual certification program under the Blue Campaign at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to provide such training.
“Workers in the entertainment, hospitality, and transportation industries are often the first to spot the warning signs, which is why proper training and awareness is so critical,” Rep. Valadao said. “Close coordination at the federal, state, and local levels is essential to catching and prosecuting human trafficking cases, and I remain committed to working with my colleagues to bring an end to this growing and disturbing crime.”
If enacted, H.R. 7234 would require the DHS Secretary to establish the Blue Campaign Certification Program to provide eligible employers with a certificate of completion to display for one year.
Additionally, the bill would require a report to be submitted to the appropriate committees within two years after the enactment of the legislation, and would require the Blue Campaign to increase coordination with experts from the private sector, academic institutions, and other covered industries, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Valadao’s office.
“Human trafficking is a horrific crime hiding in plain sight, and far too often it goes unreported,” said Rep. Carter. “This bill strengthens our nation’s response by empowering the people who are most likely to spot the warning signs first, employees in industries like hospitality, transportation, and entertainment sectors.”
The American Gaming Association and the American Hotel & Lodging Association support H.R. 7234, which has been referred for consideration to both the U.S. House Judiciary Committee and the U.S. House Homeland Security Committee.