AUSTIN – State Representative David Acton (R-Fort Worth, District 91) today introduced the North Texas Highway Anti-Trafficking Act, legislation designed to disrupt human trafficking networks that exploit Texas highways, particularly key North Texas corridors like I-35W, I-20, and I-30. The bill strengthens coordination between law enforcement and commercial truck drivers—who are often the eyes and ears on our highways—by providing specialized training, increased patrols, and practical tools to identify and report suspected trafficking. “Human trafficking is modern-day slavery happening right here on Texas roads, and thanks to decades of lax border policies, far too many victims are transported through busy corridors in North Texas,” said Representative Acton. “Truck drivers and highway patrol officers see these routes every day. By giving them better training, resources, and incentives to act, we can save lives, rescue victims, and bring traffickers to justice. This bill builds on Texas’s strong commitment to border security and public safety while focusing on a critical threat in our own communities.” 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, including vehicle decals and up to $1,000 rewards for certified drivers whose tips lead to rescues or arrests. • Increased DPS troopers and targeted patrols along high-risk routes in North Texas. • Outreach programs at rest areas and truck stops, plus grants for local law enforcement to support anti-trafficking operations. • $5 million in dedicated funding, with authority to pursue additional federal and private support. Representative Acton added, “A prolonged border crisis has put our state in a position where we have to step up. It’s not fair. It’s not safe for our kids, our wives, our law enforcement, but it is where we are. We are going to meet the moment and put real Texas leadership into action. We are going to crack down on the plague of human trafficking, stand up for human rights, and protect our citizens in every Texan community.” The legislation will be considered during the upcoming Legislative Session beginning in January 2026.