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Bill

S 1197

An Act to strengthen laws combatting human trafficking and protecting survivors of modern-day slavery

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mark Montigny

Massachusetts bill strengthens human trafficking laws to increase protections for survivors and penalties for traffickers through enhanced criminal enforcement and victim support measures.

Accompanied a study order (under JR10), see S3129
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Bill Summary · S 1197

Legislative bill overview

S 1197 strengthens Massachusetts' legal framework against human trafficking and modern slavery by enhancing protections for survivors and increasing penalties for traffickers. The bill was referred to the Judiciary Committee in February 2025 and is scheduled for a hearing in late September, indicating it remains in the early-to-middle stages of the legislative process.

Why is this important

Human trafficking is a significant criminal enterprise affecting thousands of people annually, including in Massachusetts. Strengthened anti-trafficking laws can improve survivor protections, increase prosecution success rates, and deter perpetrators through enhanced penalties. The bill's focus on both criminal enforcement and survivor support addresses trafficking through multiple policy angles.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and specificity: The bill's exact provisions aren't detailed in available information, but anti-trafficking bills sometimes debate whether they sufficiently balance victim protection with due process rights for accused traffickers
  • Survivor support funding: Debates may arise around whether the bill adequately funds shelters, counseling, and reintegration services, or if it emphasizes enforcement over support
  • Sex work vs. trafficking distinctions: These bills sometimes create tension between advocates who argue certain provisions conflate consensual sex work with human trafficking, affecting workers' safety

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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