Jefferson City, MO (KTRS) A new initiative is underway to combat human trafficking in Missouri.
Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley held a press conference on Tuesday morning at the Missouri Chamber of Commerce in Jefferson City, where he announced the formation of the Business Council. This is a coalition of Missouri businesses committed to fighting human trafficking in the state.
“Missouri’s businesses are leaders in communities across our State, and our new Business Council allows them to lead on one on one of the most important issues we face today,” Hawley said. “I look forward to partnering with Missouri’s business leaders to end the scourge of modern-day slavery.”
The new Business Council will focus on training to help workers recognized signs for human trafficking, especially for workers in industries most likely to encounter trafficking situations.
The Council’s initial membership includes business and community leaders. The Business Council also consists of many of the state’s largest companies and organizations, including the Missouri Hotel and Lodging Association and the Truman Medical Center.
Missouri American Water Company has joined this effort.
“Our employees directly interact with Missourians on a daily basis,” said President of Missouri American Water Cheryl Norton.
“We hope that by participating in the Business Council Against Human Trafficking, our employees will learn how to recognize signs of trafficking and how to respond. We are pleased to participate in the Council and join this fight to keep all Missourians safe.” Norton added.
This is the latest initiative by Hawley aimed at cracking down on human traffickers. Earlier this year, Hawley formed a statewide anti-trafficking task force within the Attorney General’s Office. He is also credited with spearheading the largest anti-trafficking raid in Missouri history.
