Statement by Gov. Rick Perry on Senate Passage of House Bill 3000

Gov. Rick Perry today issued the following statement on the Senate passage of House Bill 3000, which increases the penalties for individuals who participate in human trafficking:

"I commend the Texas House and Senate for passing HB 3000, which creates stiffer penalties for individuals who perpetrate the heinous practice of human trafficking, a modern-day slave trade. In combination with Senate Bill 24, this legislation sends a clear message to human traffickers that we will not tolerate this kind of human tragedy in Texas. I'm thankful for Rep. Thompson and Sen. Van de Putte's leadership on this issue, and look forward to this bill reaching my desk."