Criminal Justice (Human Trafficking)

HB 118 establishes the Council on Human and Sex Trafficking within Alaska's Department of Public Safety. The council will standardize data collection on trafficking incidents, distribute state and federal grants to local service providers, and coordinate efforts across 7 state agencies (including Health, Corrections, and Education) to improve victim services and public awareness. It directly affects victims of trafficking, local service organizations receiving grants, and state agencies working on trafficking prevention. Key provisions include creating a unified data system, requiring annual reports to the governor and legislature, and mandating collaboration with advocacy groups and survivors. The bill focuses on structural coordination rather than new funding or penalties.