Enduring Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act
Summary
H.R. 4929, the "Enduring Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act," aims to amend Title 18 of the United States Code. The bill focuses on extending additional special assessments on convicted persons related to trafficking offenses. Specifically, it removes the sunset clause from Section 3014(a), ensuring that the $5,000 assessment on non-indigent individuals or entities convicted of trafficking offenses continues indefinitely.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is the continuation of a $5,000 special assessment on individuals or entities convicted of trafficking offenses who are not indigent. This will provide a sustained revenue stream intended to support victims of trafficking. The removal of the sunset clause ensures a consistent funding mechanism for victim support services.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a consistent funding source for victim support services by removing the sunset clause on special assessments.
- Increases financial penalties for those convicted of trafficking offenses, potentially deterring future crimes.
- Ensures that non-indigent offenders contribute financially to the support of trafficking victims.
- May lead to enhanced resources for law enforcement and victim assistance programs.
- Reinforces the government's commitment to combating human trafficking.
Potential Disadvantages
- The assessment may disproportionately affect individuals who are not considered indigent but still have limited financial resources.
- The funds generated may not be efficiently or effectively distributed to victim support services.
- The increased financial burden on offenders may not significantly deter trafficking offenses.
- Potential for legal challenges based on fairness and due process.
- Administrative costs associated with collecting and distributing the assessments could reduce the net benefit to victims.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to provide resources for victims of trafficking. The legislative power to enact such a bill is vested in Congress according to Article I, Section 1. However, concerns about due process and equal protection under the law (Amendments V and XIV) could arise if the assessment is applied unfairly or inconsistently.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).