**DOT Calls on Truckers to Join Human Trafficking Fight**

by TRUCKERS VA
(UNITED STATES)

Intro – This ain’t just freight we’re talkin’ about

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) just dropped a major announcement — and truckers, you’re officially invited to the table.


They’re putting together a brand-new advisory committee on human trafficking in the transportation industry. And instead of keeping it behind closed doors with suit-and-tie folks, they’re asking for real people — including truckers — to step up and help shape the policy.

That’s right: they want your voice. Your eyes on the road. Your lived experience.
Because human trafficking ain’t just some far-off issue — it’s happening right now, at truck stops, rest areas, gas stations, and warehouses across America.

What is this committee, and why now?

The DOT is creating an **official National Advisory Committee on Human Trafficking in Transportation**. Its job? Help the government:

Create smarter, real-world policies

Educate the transportation workforce

Tighten up prevention and reporting systems

Make our highways and hubs safer for vulnerable people

They’re asking for nominations from drivers, fleet managers, logistics pros, victim advocates, and law enforcement — basically, anyone with insight and guts.

Why now? Because despite years of awareness campaigns, trafficking continues to thrive in the shadows of the industry. And policy made from behind a desk isn’t cutting it.

Truckers: Already the front-line defenders

Let’s be real — **truckers have been stepping up on this issue long before the government asked**.

Organizations like Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) have trained thousands of drivers to spot red flags and call it out when something looks off.

And they’ve saved lives doing it.
Just one call from a trained driver has led to entire trafficking rings being busted.
One phone call. One observation. One driver who gave a damn.

Truckers have a unique vantage point:

They see the backroads, truck stops, and rest areas

They know what “normal” looks like

They notice when something doesn’t sit right

So if DOT is finally formalizing this role — it’s about time.

What they’re asking for

DOT is soliciting nominations through their public portal. They want people who can bring:

Real-world experience in transportation

Knowledge of human trafficking risks

Passion to improve policy and save lives

This isn’t just a photo-op gig. It’s a chance to advocate, challenge, and change how this issue is handled from the top down.

If selected, committee members will meet, advise, and shape national recommendations on training, reporting, and public awareness.

Multiple perspectives on the move

Lawmakers: Applauding the initiative as part of a “whole-of-government” approach.

Anti-trafficking advocates: Excited but cautious — they want this committee to be more than just symbolic.

Drivers and industry veterans: Some are supportive. Others are saying:

“Why now? We’ve been warning y’all for years.”

And that’s fair. For years, truckers’ tips have saved lives.
It’s about time they had a formal voice in shaping the response.

What this means for drivers on the ground

Even if you’re not on the committee, this move affects you:

Expect more training programs and certifications

More signage and QR codes at rest stops and truck stops

Stricter reporting protocols at companies

Greater recognition for drivers who step in

And let’s be real — if you’ve ever seen something sketchy at 2am near a trailer lot, you know this issue is real.

Now it’s time to make sure the people writing the rules know that too.

The bottom line: Truckers can be heroes — and now, policymakers

This isn’t about politics. It’s about people. And if you’ve got the heart to haul 40 tons across the country in snow and storms, you’ve definitely got what it takes to help protect the vulnerable too.

The DOT is finally giving truckers a seat at the table.
Let’s make sure it’s filled with folks who get it — not just some executive who’s never set foot in a Love’s parking lot.

If you're qualified, nominate yourself or someone you know.
If you're not, spread the word. Because this is your industry, your highways — and your chance to help save lives.

Call to Action:

Want to start preparing for life *after* the road — or alongside it? Start building skills that empower you beyond the wheel.

👉 Learn how to build your off-duty income and plan your next chapter at RetireFromTrucking.com

👉 For more ways to speak up, step up, and level up in trucking, go to LifeAsATrucker.com