Pam Bondi, Snyder Laud House Support Against Human Trafficking

Advocates for tougher legislation against human trafficking, Attorney General Pam Bondi and Rep. William Snyder, R-Stuart, praised the House support for HB 7049 on Friday.

This legislation will give us the tools we need to stop the exploitative and degrading business of human trafficking, Bondi stated in a release.

The bill -- its companion effort is expected to go before the Senate next week -- would increase penalties for trafficking to be consistent with federal human trafficking laws and give law enforcement agencies the ability to request warrants to "intercept oral and electronic communications" related to human trafficking investigations.

Considering Florida is a major tourist destination that welcomes millions of visitors every year, the state has also unfortunately become an increasing haven for criminals engaged in committing these despicable crimes against the most vulnerable among us, stated Snyder -- who is running for Martin County Sheriff -- in a separate release.

I hope this legislation will lead to a day when victims of human trafficking can come out from the shadows and live normal lives without fear of retribution from their captors.

Human trafficking is a crime that robs individuals of their dignity and their right to contribute to our society. I look forward to seeing this bill pass the Senate and the day when more human traffickers can be brought to justice.