Reno, Nev. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) spoke at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport about her legislation, passed into law this month, to crack down on human trafficking at U.S. airports. Joined by the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority Chief of Police, airport leadership, and local advocates from The Children’s Cabinet, Cortez Masto highlighted the airport’s work to help trafficking victims and discussed the importance of expanding these efforts in Reno and nationwide.
“We know that human trafficking victims are often trafficked through public transportation hubs like airports, and that’s why I just passed legislation to help airports crack down on trafficking and protect survivors,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Reno-Tahoe International Airport and their partners are leading the way on combating human trafficking, and I’m proud to deliver them the support they need to continue their work and to help expand these programs to airports across the country.”
“This FAA reauthorization is a critical action that ensures organized and safe air travel,” said Daren Griffin, President/CEO of the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority. “We worked closely with our federal delegation to ensure this legislation benefits our airport, and I thank Senator Cortez Masto, Senator Rosen, and Congressman Amodei for their partnership. With public safety as our top priority, this reauthorization marks a new era, providing resources to enhance safety and funding for human trafficking prevention.”
“We are grateful for our partnerships with the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and Senator Catherine Cortez Masto to combat human trafficking through our Safe Place program,” Kim Young, CEO, The Children’s Cabinet. “This program is crucial in providing immediate assistance and safe havens for youth in crisis. With the airport’s commitment to the Safe Place program and the support of Senator Cortez Masto’s legislation, we are dedicated to protecting vulnerable youth and ensuring they receive the critical resources they need. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of countless young people, ensuring they have a safe, supportive, and hopeful future.”
Cortez Masto has consistently fought to protect victims of sexual violence and human trafficking. She is leading efforts protect trafficking survivors and hold perpetrators accountable. Her bills to train law enforcement to prevent child trafficking and combat human trafficking activity on social media were signed into law last year. She’s also worked to deliver critical funding to Reno-Tahoe International Airport, including $7 million for Reno-Tahoe International Airport terminal improvements. In addition, the Fiscal Year 2024 Federal Aviation Reauthorization Act (FAA) made critical investments in air safety and stabilized funding for medium-sized airports including Reno-Tahoe Airport.
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