119-SRES-603 Journalist Public Summary

Headline Summary

The Senate passed a bipartisan resolution recognizing January 1–February 1, 2026, as National Trafficking and Modern Slavery Prevention Month to raise awareness and encourage coordinated action against human trafficking.

What It Does

This is a simple Senate resolution that expresses support for observing a national awareness month focused on preventing human trafficking and modern slavery. It encourages Federal, State, Tribal, and local partnerships; survivor-informed, victim-centered approaches; and public education activities leading up to National Freedom Day on February 1. It does not change existing law, create programs, or allocate new funding.

Who’s For It

• Lead sponsors from both parties, including Senators Chuck Grassley, Catherine Cortez Masto, Susan Collins, Dick Durbin, Jon Husted, Ron Wyden, and Richard Blumenthal, highlighting bipartisan concern about trafficking and the need for public awareness.
• The full Senate—passed by unanimous consent—signaling broad, cross-party support for awareness and coordination efforts.
• Anti-trafficking advocates generally support awareness campaigns paired with survivor-centered services and law enforcement coordination.

Who’s Against It

• No formal Senate opposition was recorded; the measure cleared by unanimous consent.
• Some critics of “awareness-only” resolutions argue they are largely symbolic unless matched with funding, data improvements, or enforcement resources.

What’s Next

The resolution was agreed to in the Senate on February 10, 2026. Because it is a Senate simple resolution, there are no further steps with the House or the President. Agencies, states, and community groups may use it to bolster January–February 2026 awareness and prevention activities.

Key Numbers Mentioned in the Resolution

These figures are cited in the resolution to underscore the scale of the issue.