Peach Tree Times

Atlanta, GA – Governor Brian P. Kemp, accompanied by First Lady Marty Kemp and various state officials, signed a comprehensive package of anti-human trafficking legislation into law. The legislation includes SB 370, HB 993, and HB 1201, aimed at combating human trafficking and supporting victims in Georgia.

Governor Kemp expressed his pride in the state's progress, stating, "For years Georgia was considered a hot spot for human trafficking, but thanks to the GRACE Commission, under the leadership of First Lady Marty Kemp, we have established Georgia as a national leader in this fight." He emphasized the importance of empowering survivors and cracking down on traffickers and buyers.

In addition to SB 370, Governor Kemp signed HB 993, which creates the felony offense of grooming of a minor and prohibits certain defenses in cases related to sexually explicit conduct involving minors. He also signed HB 1201, allowing human trafficking survivors to vacate first offender or conditional discharge status for certain crimes.

Special thanks were extended to key individuals who supported and contributed to the legislation, including Attorney General Chris Carr, Hannah Palmquist from the Attorney General's Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit, Jay Neal from the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, and Candice Broce from the Department of Human Services and Division of Family and Children Services.

Governor Kemp acknowledged the collaborative efforts that led to the signing of these bills, extending his appreciation to Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Speaker Jon Burns, and all those involved in the legislative process.