Some of Washington state’s efforts to raise awareness about human trafficking are outdated, although agencies generally comply with state law.
Some of Washington state’s efforts to raise awareness about human trafficking are outdated, although agencies generally comply with state law, according to a new performance audit.
The Office of the Washington State Auditor reviewed five state agencies responsible for raising awareness about human trafficking, which involves using force, fraud or coercion to compel someone into work.
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Auditors found that a telephone number for a victim helpline remains in current trafficking awareness materials and is cited in state law despite being disconnected two years ago.
The Department of Commerce also has not updated its model human trafficking awareness poster, which businesses can display in restrooms, since it was created a decade ago.
“As a state, we must ensure our laws and materials are current and effective,” State Auditor Pat McCarthy said.
The audit found agencies met legal requirements in other areas and sometimes exceeded them.
The Department of Transportation has placed more than 400 human trafficking awareness signs at rest areas statewide and also displays digital signs on ferries and in terminals.
An image of a trafficking awareness poster found in Washington state. (Source: Auditor photo at Washington rest area.)Auditors identified several ways Washington could improve awareness efforts, particularly involving labor trafficking.
Those include strengthening laws requiring signs in public places such as restrooms and transportation facilities.
The state could also expand human trafficking training to additional school employees, health and mental health professionals, and hospitality workers, according to the audit.
Auditors recommended that the Washington State Task Force Against the Trafficking of Persons work to align state laws with leading practices. The Department of Commerce was also advised to address outdated information.
