State Representative David Acton (R-Fort Worth, District 91) has introduced the North Texas Highway Anti-Trafficking Act, aimed at combating human trafficking along major highways in Texas, particularly in North Texas. The legislation focuses on key corridors such as I-35W, I-20, and I-30, which are often exploited by trafficking networks. The bill seeks to improve collaboration between law enforcement and commercial truck drivers, who are frequently positioned to observe suspicious activities on the highways. It proposes specialized training for highway patrol officers, increased patrols, and practical tools to help identify and report suspected trafficking incidents. In a statement, Representative Acton emphasized the urgency of addressing human trafficking, describing it as "modern-day slavery" occurring on Texas roads. He attributed the rise in trafficking to "decades of lax border policies," asserting that many victims are transported through busy North Texas corridors. Acton stated, "By giving [truck drivers and highway patrol officers] better training, resources, and incentives to act, we can save lives, rescue victims, and bring traffickers to justice." Key provisions of the North Texas Highway Anti-Trafficking Act include: - Mandatory advanced human trafficking training for highway patrol officers in larger counties. - A voluntary "Truckers Against Trafficking" certification program, which would provide vehicle decals and rewards of up to $1,000 for certified drivers whose tips lead to rescues or arrests. - Increased Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers and targeted patrols along high-risk routes in North Texas. - Outreach programs at rest areas and truck stops, along with grants for local law enforcement to support anti-trafficking operations. - $5 million in dedicated funding, with the potential to seek additional federal and private support. Acton remarked on the current border crisis, stating, "It’s not fair. It’s not safe for our kids, our wives, our law enforcement, but it is where we are." He expressed a commitment to addressing the issue, asserting that the legislation represents a proactive approach to protecting citizens and standing up for human rights in Texas communities. The North Texas Highway Anti-Trafficking Act will be considered during the upcoming Legislative Session, which begins in January 2026.