Representative Morgan Luttrell of Texas has introduced legislation aimed at protecting unaccompanied migrant children from human trafficking. The "Stop Human Trafficking of Unaccompanied Migrant Children Act of 2024" addresses concerns about the vulnerability of these children, with Luttrell stating that over 300,000 have effectively disappeared under the Biden administration, potentially falling prey to cartels and criminal organizations.

This bill mirrors legislation introduced in the Senate by Senators Rick Scott and Ron Johnson. It focuses on strengthening the vetting process for adults sponsoring migrant children in the U.S., including parents, close relatives, and unrelated individuals. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) would be required to thoroughly vet all adults residing in a migrant child's sponsored home.

Senator Scott expressed alarm over the potential dangers faced by these children, emphasizing the need for improved oversight and accountability. He criticized the Biden administration's immigration policies for contributing to the current situation.

The proposed legislation includes several key provisions designed to prevent child trafficking. It would prohibit releasing children to sponsors who are in the country illegally, unless they are the child's legal guardian or a relative. Mandatory home visits before placement and five additional unannounced visits during the child's first year in the U.S. are also included. Furthermore, the bill mandates regular reporting to Congress on efforts to locate currently missing children.

Luttrell stressed the importance of HHS implementing comprehensive vetting procedures to ensure children are placed with responsible adults. He framed the legislation as a necessary corrective to what he views as failed border policies under the Biden administration, aiming to reinstate the stricter approaches of the Trump era.