Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB839

Introduced
1/15/26  
Refer
1/15/26  

Caption

An Act to renumber 118.07 (5); to create 115.28 (67), 118.06 (5) (b) and 121.02 (1) (L) 9. of the statutes; Relating to: required human trafficking and sextortion prevention instruction in certain grades and teacher training related to identifying victims of child trafficking and sextortion. (FE)

Impact

If enacted, SB839 will have significant implications for state laws governing education and child protection measures. By instituting formal curriculum requirements regarding human trafficking and sextortion, the bill ensures that these topics will be addressed systematically within schools. This action reflects a commitment to enhancing student safety and fostering a supportive environment throughout educational institutions. The requirement for teacher training signifies an acknowledgment that educators play a crucial role in prevention and intervention in these sensitive matters.

Summary

Senate Bill 839 focuses on strengthening preventive measures against human trafficking and sextortion in educational settings. The bill mandates that certain grade levels receive specific instructions aimed at educating students about the dangers of these issues. Additionally, it includes requirements for teacher training to help them identify potential victims of child trafficking and sextortion. The intent behind this legislation is to equip both students and educators with the knowledge needed to recognize and address these critical concerns effectively.

Contention

The discussions surrounding SB839 indicate a recognition of the serious nature of human trafficking and sextortion, yet they also reveal some contention regarding implementation. Proponents argue that education is a pivotal first step in combatting these issues, emphasizing the importance of prevention through awareness. Critics, however, may raise concerns about the sufficiency of resources for training educators and the potential impact on existing curricula. Balancing the integration of these critical topics without overwhelming educational resources remains a key point of debate.

Companion Bills

WI AB832

Crossfiled An Act to renumber 118.07 (5); to create 115.28 (67), 118.06 (5) (b) and 121.02 (1) (L) 9. of the statutes; Relating to: required human trafficking and sextortion prevention instruction in certain grades and teacher training related to identifying victims of child trafficking and sextortion. (FE)

Previously Filed As

WI AB832

Required human trafficking and sextortion prevention instruction in certain grades and teacher training related to identifying victims of child trafficking and sextortion. (FE)

WI H4343

Human trafficking awareness and prevention training

WI SB196

Relating to the development and use of instructional modules and training for public schools on the prevention of sexual abuse and sex trafficking.

WI HB754

Relating to human trafficking prevention, including training for medical assistants, disclosure of human trafficking information by certain health care facilities, and protection for facility employees who report human trafficking.

WI HB742

Relating to human trafficking prevention, including training for first responders, disclosure of human trafficking information by certain health care facilities, and protection for facility employees who report human trafficking.

WI A4796

Expands crime of human trafficking and eliminates statute of limitations; establishes human trafficking response teams; expands human trafficking training and education requirements; appropriates $1 million to Commission on Human Trafficking.

WI S3946

Expands crime of human trafficking and eliminates statute of limitations; establishes human trafficking response teams; expands human trafficking training and education requirements; appropriates $1 million to Commission on Human Trafficking.

WI HB1632

In certification of teachers, providing for human trafficking awareness and prevention.

WI SB864

Courtroom supports for and sealing the identifying information of child victims and child witnesses of human trafficking crimes. (FE)

WI AB834

Courtroom supports for and sealing the identifying information of child victims and child witnesses of human trafficking crimes. (FE)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.