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SB 7

Department of Transportation – Human Trafficking Awareness, Training, and Response (See Someone, Save Someone Act)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Jackson

Maryland bill requires Department of Transportation to train employees to identify and report human trafficking, leveraging transit workers as detection resources.

Hearing 3/20 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · SB 7

Legislative bill overview

SB 7 requires the Maryland Department of Transportation to establish a comprehensive human trafficking awareness and training program for its employees, with particular focus on transportation workers who may encounter trafficking victims. The bill mandates the creation of response protocols and educational materials to help DOT staff recognize and report suspected human trafficking incidents.

Why is this important

Transportation workers—including those at transit stations, toll facilities, and maintenance centers—are in unique positions to identify potential trafficking victims. By equipping DOT employees with training and clear reporting procedures, the bill aims to leverage a large workforce as an additional detection layer for law enforcement. This addresses a real gap, as trafficking often occurs along transportation corridors and involves moving victims through transit systems.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Developing comprehensive training programs, materials, and ongoing education requires budget allocation that may compete with other DOT priorities
  • Employee burden: Mandating additional training and reporting responsibilities could be viewed as expanding job duties without corresponding compensation adjustments
  • Privacy and reporting concerns: Unclear definitions of "suspected trafficking" could lead to over-reporting of vulnerable populations or civil rights concerns around profiling based on appearance or behavior
  • Effectiveness questions: Skeptics may question whether transportation worker training significantly impacts trafficking interdiction compared to other enforcement strategies

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

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