House bill targets homeless youth, runaways
WASHINGTON — A bill that passed the House on Wednesday seeks to bolster counselors who work with runaways and homeless young people.
Lawmakers by voice vote passed a measure that would allow federal grants to train local authorities on human trafficking, and to build programs to reach youth who are potential victims and improve their care.
The bill was sponsored by Rep. Joe Heck, R-Nev., who said Las Vegas is a popular hunting ground for human traffickers who lure vulnerable young people into forced labor and prostitution.
Heck gathered input for the legislation from a panel discussion held in Henderson in May that brought together Las Vegas police, youth advocates and trafficking victims.
The bill now heads to the Senate, where its fate is uncertain.
Contact Stephens Washington Bureau Chief Steve Tetreault at stetreault@stephensmedia.com or 202-783-1760. Find him on Twitter: @STetreaultDC.
