The Arkansas Department of Transportation is joining a national initiative by signing the Transportation Leaders Against Human Trafficking pledge, according to agency officials.
The initiative is comprised of transportation and travel industry stakeholders working together to maximize efforts against human trafficking. The partnership focuses on five key areas: leadership, education and training, policy development, public awareness and outreach and information sharing and analysis.
ArDOT Director Scott Bennett presented the signed pledge today during the April Arkansas Highway Commission meeting.
"Awareness is critical. Knowing what to look for and how to respond is essential," Bennett said.
On May 4, 2017, the Arkansas General Assembly passed a law requiring any individual applying for a commercial driver license to complete human trafficking training and provide a certificate to the Department of Finance and Administration. More than 1,900 ArDOT employees have participated in the Truckers Against Trafficking training in order to receive their license.