Dayton Reporter

Congressman Mike Turner, along with Senators James Lankford and Amy Klobuchar, and Representatives David Valadao, Raja Krishnamoorthi, and Seth Magaziner, have introduced the Ensuring Accountability and Dignity in Government Contracting Act of 2025. This bipartisan legislation aims to close gaps in federal rules that allow human trafficking to persist in government contracts while enhancing oversight and accountability.

"The U.S. government must ensure that taxpayer dollars are never tied to human trafficking," stated Congressman Turner. He emphasized the need for stronger enforcement and contractor accountability.

Senator Lankford expressed concern over lax standards that enable traffickers to exploit vulnerable individuals. "This bill puts proactive measures in place," he said, ensuring no taxpayer funds support contracts lacking safeguards against trafficking.

Senator Klobuchar highlighted the importance of preventing human trafficking through federal contracting reform. "This bipartisan legislation is another step in the fight to end trafficking," she noted.

Congressman Valadao stressed the zero-tolerance policy for human trafficking but acknowledged recent failures by federal agencies. "American taxpayers should never be complicit in human trafficking," he declared, emphasizing the bill's role in ensuring anti-trafficking compliance plans among contractors.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi underscored efforts to end human trafficking by requiring contractors to provide compliance plans and mandating investigations into violations. "This legislation will reinforce our efforts," he affirmed.

Congressman Magaziner called for increased anti-trafficking efforts funded by taxpayer dollars. He stated, "This bipartisan bill will increase oversight of government contracts."

The act requires contractors to submit anti-trafficking compliance plans for covered contracts and mandates Inspector General investigations into credible violations. It also directs the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to assess enhancements for contractor compliance assessments.

Despite a zero-tolerance policy since 2000, allegations continue as reported by the Government Accountability Office (GAO). The 2022 End Human Trafficking in Government Contracts Act aimed at improving this framework but saw limited agency referrals on investigated allegations.

Read more about this legislative effort on their official website.