MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen has partnered with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to launch Alabama Combats Trafficking (ACT), a new initiative enlisting local businesses in the fight against human trafficking.
The program encourages Alabama businesses to apply online at sos.alabama.gov/act/get-involved. Participating businesses will receive training materials on identifying and reporting trafficking, as well as a decal to display in a visible location.
The Secretary of State’s website will list each participating business and its address.
“I am encouraging all Alabama businesses to participate in this important initiative,” Allen said. “The Alabama Combats Trafficking program provides citizens with the opportunity to help spot and report cases of human trafficking. We are bringing the fight against human trafficking to the forefront of minds and hearts across our state.”
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said public awareness is key.
“When the public knows the signs and stays vigilant, they become powerful partners in helping law enforcement identify victims and stop traffickers,” Taylor said.
The program has also gained support from the Alabama District Attorneys Association and the Alabama Sheriffs Association, both citing the importance of community engagement in identifying and preventing trafficking.
“This provides another valuable tool to address this most dangerous issue in all of our communities,” said Huey “Hoss” Mack, Executive Director of the Alabama Sheriffs Association. “One phone call may save many lives.”
For more information, visit sos.alabama.gov.
