Senate Backs $5,000 Trafficking Fee
Officially: Enduring Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act
The Senate passed a bill to keep a $5,000 fee on human traffickers. Affects convicted traffickers, funding victim support.
Where it stands
Passed House. Now before the Senate.
This is the moment to act.
- Permanent $5,000 fee: Applies to convicted traffickers to fund victim support.
- Removal of sunset clause: Extends the fee indefinitely beyond 2025.
↓ Why your message matters here
This bill passed the House and is now before the Senate — this is the moment to act.
The debate
What people are saying about this bill
- Steady Funding for Victims: Ensures continuous financial support for victim services without relying on temporary measures.
- Financial Accountability: Targets offenders who can afford to pay, ensuring they contribute to the harm they caused.
- Bipartisan Support: Passed unanimously in the Senate, showing broad agreement on the importance of supporting victims.
- Potential Burden on Offenders: Some argue the $5,000 fee could be excessive for lower-level offenses.
- Administrative Challenges: Determining who can afford to pay the fee may increase the workload for courts.
- Limited Revenue: If trafficking convictions are low, the funds collected might not be substantial.
Where this bill is in the process
Legislative timeline
Introduced
Introduced in Senate
Senate Committee
Under Senate committee consideration
Senate Floor Vote
Voted on by Senate
Passed Senate
Approved by Senate
House Review
Sent to House for consideration
Latest: Message on Senate action sent to the House. (12/11/2025)
Passed Both Chambers
Approved by both House and Senate
Signed into Law
Signed by the President
For more detail