AGA Human Trafficking Guide Lays Out Steps To Prevent Exploitation – PlayUSA.com

Human trafficking, unfortunately, remains an issue in the United States of America. A new task force has begun to combat it in the gambling industry with the release of an AGA human trafficking guide.

The document lists ways that members of the American Gaming Association can identify, prevent, and report human trafficking in their operations. The content is great for gamblers curious about how they can help as well.

AGA human trafficking guide highlights unfortunate issue

The AGA's Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force dropped the 25-page guide on Tuesday. It's the first step the task force has taken in its efforts to help members create a better gaming industry in the country.

“The AGA, our members, and the entire gaming industry are committed to stamping out all forms of human trafficking,” said Bill Miller, AGA President and CEO.

“Through the Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force, we will continue to bring the industry together to defeat this evil and pervasive human rights offense.”

The guide takes direction from the US Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, and Treasury. It then customizes the protocols for the gaming industry. For example, the guide stresses the importance of gambling companies educating their employees to recognize the signs of human trafficking.

According to Northeastern University, law enforcement's records likely represent less than 10% of trafficking victims in a given part of the US. The Washington Post shared that the Federal Bureau of Investigation reported over 1,800 incidents of human trafficking in 2019 alone.

With the issue so pervasive, it's important for the gambling industry in the US to take proactive measures. That's exactly what the guide lays out for the AGA's members.

AGA task force recommendations spell out actionable steps

In addition to employee education, the guide presents a fuller list of actions. That includes making sure that those employees can actually act on what they observe. That requires direct lines of communication between witnesses of potential crimes and law enforcement.

The guide also points to the role of forced labor, money laundering, and sex trafficking. The key is recognizing both the myths and the realities of trafficking happening in their midst.

Gamblers can assist in this as well. This can include reporting signs of malnourishment, poor hygiene, and suspicious transportation of individuals. With informed minds and open eyes, gambling companies and US casinos can help to reduce human trafficking in the US.