North Dakota lawmakers have approved a new bill aimed at educating students about the dangers of human trafficking.
On Thursday, the state’s House passed Senate Bill 2330, which will require public and tribal schools to teach students about human trafficking and exploitation. The bill outlines that the curriculum will include lessons on how traffickers manipulate, groom, and exploit victims.
The education will begin in 6th grade and continue through high school, reaching students in both their sophomore and senior years. This approach targets critical stages when young people may be vulnerable to such exploitation.
Rep. Jim Jonas (R-West Fargo) emphasized the importance of addressing these issues at an early age, noting that 12-year-olds, entering junior high, are prime targets for predators. He also highlighted the significance of educating 10th graders, as they are around 16 years old and some may choose to drop out of school.
Initially, the bill proposed $48,000 in funding to support the program. However, lawmakers decided to remove the funding request. Instead, they opted to use grants to help schools and organizations provide education on human trafficking, under House Bill 1308.
