Legislation signed by Georgia governor furthers fight against human trafficking

ATLANTA — Gov. Brian Kemp signed SB 461 Wednesday, spearheaded by First Lady Marty Kemp and designed to further the fight against human trafficking in Georgia. The legislation adds human trafficking to the list of serious violent and sexual offenses that require a Superior Court judge to grant bail and builds on the work of the first lady, the GRACE Commission, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit under the purview of Attorney General Chris Carr.

“No issue to improve the safety and well-being of Georgians has had more bipartisan support than the top priority of our first lady and the GRACE Commission — to end human trafficking in our state,” Gov. Kemp said in a news release. “With Marty lending her voice to this important cause and working to streamline communication between the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, Georgia has changed the conversation around human trafficking while championing reforms that make our state a safe haven for victims and a place of punishment for traffickers. I’m glad to sign this bill into law, and I am thankful for all they do for Georgia’s children.”

“Brian, the girls, and I are passionate about protecting those most vulnerable and supporting our law enforcement officials in cracking down on those who wish them harm,” the first lady said. “Before now, some criminals were able to get back out onto the streets and begin preying on young victims again within hours of their initial arrest. But, thanks to SB 461, we will now have stronger procedures to prevent that from happening. I want to thank all the members of the General Assembly who unanimously voted for this measure, as well as Sen. Clint Dixon, Rep. Jodi Lott, and their fellow co-sponsors of the bill for seeing it across the finish line and to Brian’s desk for his signature.”

“As the nation’s staunchest advocate for human trafficking survivors, Marty Kemp continues to shine a light on this despicable crime, leverage bipartisan support to hold bad actors accountable and deliver critical resources to the most vulnerable among us,” Georgia Department of Human Services Commissioner Candice Broce said. “Over recent years, her efforts — bolstered by the GRACE Commission and often unanimous legislative approval — have made the Peach State a true model for eradicating this industry and preventing exploitation of countless young men and women. This legislation is an immensely powerful weapon in Georgia’s continued fight against human trafficking.”

Special Photo: Governor’s Office