Texas Senate Bill 1831, known as the No Trafficking Zone Act, strengthened Texas laws designed to combat human trafficking and protect children and other vulnerable individuals. Passed during the 87th Texas Legislature and effective September 1, 2021, the law increases criminal penalties for certain trafficking, solicitation, and prostitution offenses and expands efforts to educate the public about human trafficking.

Creating No Trafficking Zones

One of the most significant provisions of SB 1831 established enhanced penalties for trafficking offenses committed in or near schools.

Under the law, a human trafficking offense committed on school property or within 1,000 feet of a public or private primary or secondary school can carry a significantly enhanced punishment. The enhanced penalty also applies to certain locations where an official school function or an event sponsored or sanctioned by the University Interscholastic League (UIL) is taking place.

For qualifying trafficking offenses committed within these protected areas, the offense is a first-degree felony punishable by 25 to 99 years, or life, in prison.

Warning Signs at Texas Schools

The legislation also requires schools to post warning signs informing the public about the increased penalties associated with human trafficking near school property.

These signs are intended to serve two purposes:

• Warn potential offenders that trafficking near schools carries severe consequences
• Increase public awareness that human trafficking can occur within our communities

The required signs must contain information about trafficking offenses and penalties and must be displayed in both English and Spanish.

Human Trafficking Awareness and Education

SB 1831 goes beyond criminal penalties. The legislation also expanded human trafficking education and public awareness.

Among its provisions, the law requires human trafficking prevention information to be incorporated into Texas driver education and driving safety courses. It also expanded requirements for human trafficking awareness signs at certain businesses, facilities, transportation hubs, and other locations where trafficking victims may be encountered.

These signs provide information about services and assistance available to victims of human trafficking.

Why This Law Matters

Human trafficking does not occur only in distant places or hidden environments. It can happen in neighborhoods, businesses, schools, hotels, transportation centers, and communities throughout Texas.

The No Trafficking Zone Act recognizes that protecting vulnerable individuals requires more than prosecuting traffickers after a crime has occurred. Prevention, education, public awareness, victim resources, and meaningful criminal penalties all play a role.

By establishing protected areas around schools, increasing penalties for certain offenses, and expanding human trafficking awareness efforts, Texas Senate Bill 1831 provides additional tools for preventing trafficking and protecting potential victims.

Understanding the Law Is Part of Prevention

At Phoenix Advocacy Alliance, we believe education is an important part of the fight against human trafficking. Understanding the laws designed to prevent trafficking helps individuals recognize the seriousness of these crimes, identify available protections, and become better informed advocates within their communities.

Knowledge creates awareness. Awareness encourages action. And action can help protect lives.

For the complete legislation and official legislative history, visit Texas Legislature Online.

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.