Today Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada’s First District spoke on the House Floor to urge her colleagues to join her in taking action to end sex trafficking. Below are her remarks:

“Sex trafficking is a growing problem.  According to the Polaris Project, some 27 million people worldwide are victims of sex trafficking, of which one million are children.  Just last year, in Nevada, 107 children were recovered after being victimized by traffickers, and we don’t even know how many others still wait for our help. 

“That is why I am pleased to vote today on several bills intended to strengthen punishments for perpetrators, increase protections for potential victims, and ensure that victims are given the support they need to recover and rebuild their lives.

“I am also encouraged that we are coming together to condemn the horrendous kidnapping of girls in Nigeria whose only crime is to seek an education.  

“Sex trafficking is horrific. It must be stopped. It denies the fundamental rights and dignity of its victims. 

“Today we can take a step in the right direction. We can speak for those who have no voice. So I urge my colleagues to join me with a resounding ‘AYE’ on this package of bills.”