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Camp, Reichert Statement on Passage of Bipartisan Legislation to Prevent and Address Sex Trafficking of Youth in Foster Care

May 20, 2014

Washington, DC – Today, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Dave Camp (R-MI) and Human Resources Subcommittee Chairman Dave Reichert (R-WA) released the following statements after the House passed H.R. 4058, the Preventing Sex Trafficking and Improving Opportunities for Youth in Foster Care Act.

Chairman Camp: “It is unacceptable that foster care is leaving youth vulnerable to becoming victims of sex trafficking.  We can do better.   We must ensure that foster care creates a stable, supportive environment for children so they can have the tools to lead healthy, successful lives.  I commend the hard work Dave Reichert and all Committee Members put into this bipartisan legislation that will better protect youth in foster care and combat this terrible crime.”

Subcommittee Chairman Reichert: “Sex trafficking is a horror I have seen far too many vulnerable youth become victims of in my life, and it is our job to put an end to this appalling crime and to protect those most vulnerable to its snares.  Tragically, our foster youth are some of the most likely children to be sex trafficked.  These are children under our care and we cannot stand idly by and allow this to happen.  This bill will not just ensure that states take steps to protect children from sex trafficking and to rehabilitate and reintegrate victims.  It will also ensure that foster children have the ability to simply experience a real childhood and enjoy those things that every child should have the opportunity to do: go on school field trips, play on a sports team, and visit friends.  Combatting sex trafficking begins with allowing these children to find a safe, loving home.”

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