Human Trafficking: Coordinating a California Response

Report #250, June 2020
Human Trafficking: Coordinating a California Response

Full Report

Executive Summary

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 29, 2020
 
For Additional Information Contact:
Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
(510) 205-8042
 

Little Hoover Commission Calls for Stronger Effort against Labor Trafficking

California must better coordinate efforts to identify victims and help survivors of labor trafficking, California’s independent government watchdog urges in a new report.
 
“Human Trafficking: Coordinating a California Response,” a new report from the Little Hoover Commission, calls for the creation of the California Anti-Human Trafficking Council within the Governor’s office. The Council would be tasked with studying the prevalence of labor trafficking, coordinating efforts to fight the crime, and assessing the effectiveness of anti-trafficking efforts.
 
“This is a critical first step in understanding more about this extraordinarily serious crime and strengthening California’s response,” said Commission Chair Pedro Nava.
 
Human trafficking is a modern form of slavery that involves depriving or violating the personal liberty of another person with the intent to obtain forced labor or sex. Researchers typically divide human trafficking into cases of sex trafficking or labor trafficking or both. The new report focuses on the state’s response to labor trafficking, as opposed to cases that principally involve sex trafficking.
 
In its report, the Commission examines California’s response to trafficking and highlights the lack of data about the crime. The Commission also provides guidance that would enhance the state’s understanding of trafficking and our ability to fight it.
 
“California is one of the top destination states for human trafficking,” said Commissioner Cynthia Buiza, who chairs the Commission’s subcommittee on the state’s response to human trafficking. “The state can and must do more to respond.”
 
Commissioner Dion Aroner, who also served on the labor trafficking subcommittee, noted that the Council will also assess future needs.
 
“We need to know what resources are being devoted to this fight now, and we need an assessment of the resources that might be needed in the future,” Aroner said.
Nava, Buiza and Aroner wrote about the report in the San Diego Union-Tribune.
 
About the Little Hoover Commission
The Little Hoover Commission is a bipartisan, independent state oversight agency created in 1962. It includes 13 Commissioners appointed by the Governor and legislative leaders. The Commission’s mission is to investigate state operations and promote efficiency, economy and improved service.

Fact Sheet

Study Description

Agenda

Overview

California’s efforts to combat human trafficking have focused principally on sex trafficking rather than labor trafficking. The Commission found that while a variety of state agencies play a role in combatting human trafficking, and no coordinated strategy exists to target this crime statewide. Furthermore, the Commission found that there is little authoritative data about the extent of labor trafficking throughout the state. We recommend California create an Anti-Human Trafficking Council within the Governor’s Office to:

  • Build and enhance collaboration among communities throughout the state.
  • Study and improve services for victims and survivors of all forms of human trafficking.
  • Assist in the successful prosecution of human traffickers.
Written testimony from hearing witnesses can be found below in the corresponding event agenda.
 
Get help: If you believe you may have information about a human trafficking situation, the National Human Trafficking Hotline can help. Call toll-free at 1-888-373-7888 or text at 233-733 (Be Free). If you fear a victim is in immediate danger, please contact 911 to report his/her location to the police.
 
Relevant Reports
(Report #252, October 2020)
 
(Report #251, September 2020)
 
 
In the News
Print Agenda
  • May 28
    2020
    Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking
    9:30 a.m.
    Public Hearing
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking

    9:30 a.m.

    Thursday, May 28, 2020

     

    Join Online or By Phone Via Zoom

    Online: https://littlehoover.zoom.us/j/99605804008?pwd=WnBldnlZRXBNY2RId1ZVTFJDd...

    Toll Free Phone: (888) 788-0099

    Webinar ID: 996-0580-4008

    Password: 826167

     

    Public Hearing: 9:30 a.m.

    Detecting Labor Trafficking

    1. Dominic Forrest, Chief of the Labor Enforcement Task Force, Department of Industrial Relations (Written Testimony)

    2. Jessica Fry, Attorney, California Labor Commissioner’s Office, Department of Industrial Relations

    3. Patricia Alatorre, Deputy Labor Commissioner, Retaliation Compliant Investigation Unit, Department of Industrial Relations

     

    Prosecuting Labor Trafficking Cases

    1. Kevin Kish, Director, Department of Fair Employment and Housing (Written Testimony)
    2. Amanda Plisner, Deputy Attorney General and Statewide Human Trafficking Coordinator, Department of Justice (Written Testimony)

     

    Helping Labor Trafficking Victims Access Services

    1. Gina Buccieri-Harrington, Assistant Manager for Grants Management, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Written Testimony, Attachment)
    2. Lynda Gledhill, Executive Officer, California Victim Compensation Board (Written Testimony)

     

    Public Comments

              Michael N. Feuer (Written Testimony)

    Watch the Full Hearing: https://bit.ly/3dtjQOK 

    Public Notice

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    May 18, 2020

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings

     

    On Thursday, May 28, 2020, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing beginning at 9:30 a.m. The meeting will be conducted via Zoom, under the provisions of the Bagley-Keene Act as revised by Governor’s Executive Order N-29-20.

     

    Members of the public are encouraged to listen to the hearing by joining online or by phone. Click the URL to join online: https://littlehoover.zoom.us/j/99605804008?pwd=WnBldnlZRXBNY2RId1ZVTFJDdHZBQT09. To join via phone, call toll free from the U.S. by dialing (888) 788-0099. The webinar ID is 996-0580-4008. The password: 826167. We highly recommend members of the public access the meeting through the Zoom app. Please visit the Zoom website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362233-Where-Do-I-Download-The-Latest-Version- for instructions on how to download the Zoom app onto a computer or smartphone.

     

    During the hearing, members of the public may indicate to staff that they wish to make public comment by using the “raise” hand feature in Zoom or sending an email to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov with your question and the phone number from which you have joined the meeting. As is the Commission’s normal procedure during physical meetings, public comments will be heard at the end of the meeting, following the final agenda item, and will be limited to three minutes each.

     

    Witnesses may be taken out of order to accommodate speakers and to maintain a quorum. The meeting may be cancelled without notice.  

     

    If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Little Hoover Commission at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Friday, May 22, 2020.

     

    Please be aware that there may be delays in responding to emails or other communications to the Commission as our staff is now working remotely due to the coronavirus epidemic. We appreciate your patience.

    Video

  • January 30
    2020
    Labor Trafficking Advisory Meeting
    10 a.m., Controller's Conference Room #351, City Hall East, 20
    Advisory Committee Meeting
    Agenda

    Advisory Meeting on Labor Trafficking

    Thursday, January 30, 2020

    Controller's Conference Room, Room 351

    City Hall East

    200 North Main Street

    Los Angeles, CA 90012

     

    Opening Session: 10 a.m.

    Introductory Comments

    • Pedro Nava, Chairman, Little Hoover Commission
    • Mike Feuer, City Attorney, Los Angeles

     

    Discussion: How Can the State of California Enhance Identification of Labor Trafficking?

     

    Discussion: How Can the State of California Improve Its Response to Labor Trafficking Cases?

     

    Lunch Break (noon – 1 pm)

     

    Afternoon Session: 1 p.m.

    Presentation: How Other State Governments Organize to Combat Labor Trafficking

    • Maria Trujillo, Human Trafficking Program Manager, Colorado Human Trafficking Council (Presentation)

     

    Discussion: What Should the State of California Borrow from Other States’ Responses to Trafficking?

     

    Closing Remarks

     

    Public Comments

     

    Public Notice

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    January 16, 2020

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings

     

    On Thursday, January 30, 2020, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct an advisory meeting on California state government’s role in identifying and combatting labor trafficking and assisting victims/survivors of this type of crime. The meeting will begin at 10 a.m. in the Controller’s Conference Room #351 located in City Hall East at 200 North Main Street in Los Angeles. The hearing will break at approximately noon for lunch, then reconvene at 1 p.m.

     

    Times are approximate and subject to change. Agenda items may be taken out of order to accommodate speakers. The meeting may be cancelled without notice.  

     

    The meeting is open to the public. Members of the public will have the opportunity to comment on any item on the Commission’s meeting agenda.

     

    The Commission welcomes written comments on its study topics at any point during the study; please email written comments to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov.

     

    If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Little Hoover Commission at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Monday, January 20, 2020.

     

    Video

    Morning Session: https://youtu.be/DQOiY08_OAc

    Afternoon Session: https://youtu.be/77OyYqHCTXA

  • November 21
    2019
    Business Meeting
    at approximately 12:30 p.m., San Diego Central Library, San Diego,
    Business Meeting
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Business Meeting
    Thursday, November 21, 2019
    Commission Room, 9th Floor, San Diego Central Library
    330 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 

    The Commission will consider agenda items I-V at approximately 12:30 p.m. Members of the public will have an opportunity to make comments about Commission agenda items during the meeting.

    I. Business Meeting Minutes from October 24, 2019

    II. Administrative Update

    III. Project Selection

    a. Update on project schedule

    IV. Implementation and Impact Activity

    V. Reports from the California State Auditor’s Office

  • November 21
    2019
    Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking
    10 a.m.-4:00 p.m., San Diego Central Library, San Diego, CA
    Public Hearing
    Agenda

     

    PDF version of agenda available here (recommended for printing and downloading)

     

    AGENDA

     

    Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking
    Thursday, November 21, 2019
    Shiley Special Events Suite, 9th Floor, San Diego Central Library
    330 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 

     

    Public Hearing: 10 a.m.

    Introductory Comments

    1. Toni Atkins, President pro Tempore, California Senate

     

    Perspectives from Labor Trafficking Survivors and Service Providers

    2. Angela Guanzon, Survivor Advocate (Written Testimony)

    3. Renuka Zellars, Survivor Advocate

    4. Jamie Beck, President and Managing Attorney, Free to Thrive (Written Testimony)

     

    15 Minute Break

     

    Introduction to Labor Trafficking

    5. Colleen Owens, founder and CEO of THE WHY; former Senior Research Associate, Urban Institute (Written Testimony, Supplement to Written Testimony)

    6. Kathleen Kim, Professor of Law, Loyola Law School (Written Testimony)

     

    Lunch Break

     

    Hearing Reconvenes: 1:30 p.m.

    Lessons from the field: How local governments are combatting Labor Trafficking

    7. Summer Stephan, District Attorney, San Diego County (Written Testimony)

    8. Nancy O’Malley, District Attorney, Alameda County (Written Testimony)

    9. Lynette Gonzales, Deputy District Attorney, Fresno County (Written Testimony)

    10. Anh Truong, Supervising Attorney, Sex & Labor Trafficking Unit, Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office (Written Testimony)

     

    15 Minute Break

     

    Looking Ahead: What is Needed to Strengthen California’s Response to Labor Trafficking?

    11. Kay Buck, Chief Executive Officer, The Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking (Written Testimony, Supplement to Written Testimony)

    12. Jean Bruggeman, Executive Director, The Freedom Network USA (Written Testimony)

     

    Public Comments

     

    The hearing is open to the public, although the Commission requests that those attending register at Eventbrite.com.

    Public Notice

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    November 7, 2019

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings

     

    On Thursday, November 21, 2019, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on California state government’s role in identifying and combatting labor trafficking and assisting victims/survivors of this type of crime. The hearing will begin at 10 a.m. in the Shiley Special Events Suite located on the 9th floor of the San Diego Central Library at 330 Park Blvd in San Diego. The hearing will break at approximately 12:30 p.m. for lunch and the Commission’s business meeting in the Commission Room on the 9th floor of the San Diego Central Library. It expects to conclude the business meeting at approximately 1:30 p.m., at which time it will reconvene the hearing on labor trafficking in the Shiley Special Events Suite.

    The Commission may act on any item listed on the hearing or business meeting agenda. Times are approximate and subject to change. Agenda items may be taken out of order to accommodate speakers and to maintain a quorum. The meeting may be cancelled without notice.  

    The hearing is open to the public, although the Commission requests that those attending register at Eventbrite.com. Members of the public will have the opportunity to comment on any item on the Commission’s hearing and business meeting agendas.

    The Commission welcomes written comments on its study topics at any point during the study; please email written comments to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov. The Commission also welcomes written comments on any item on its business meeting agenda; please email business meeting comments by 12 p.m. on November 14, 2019, to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov.

    If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Little Hoover Commission at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Monday, November 18, 2019.

May 28
2020
Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking
9:30 a.m.
Public Hearing
Agenda

AGENDA

Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking

9:30 a.m.

Thursday, May 28, 2020

 

Join Online or By Phone Via Zoom

Online: https://littlehoover.zoom.us/j/99605804008?pwd=WnBldnlZRXBNY2RId1ZVTFJDd...

Toll Free Phone: (888) 788-0099

Webinar ID: 996-0580-4008

Password: 826167

 

Public Hearing: 9:30 a.m.

Detecting Labor Trafficking

1. Dominic Forrest, Chief of the Labor Enforcement Task Force, Department of Industrial Relations (Written Testimony)

2. Jessica Fry, Attorney, California Labor Commissioner’s Office, Department of Industrial Relations

3. Patricia Alatorre, Deputy Labor Commissioner, Retaliation Compliant Investigation Unit, Department of Industrial Relations

 

Prosecuting Labor Trafficking Cases

  1. Kevin Kish, Director, Department of Fair Employment and Housing (Written Testimony)
  2. Amanda Plisner, Deputy Attorney General and Statewide Human Trafficking Coordinator, Department of Justice (Written Testimony)

 

Helping Labor Trafficking Victims Access Services

  1. Gina Buccieri-Harrington, Assistant Manager for Grants Management, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Written Testimony, Attachment)
  2. Lynda Gledhill, Executive Officer, California Victim Compensation Board (Written Testimony)

 

Public Comments

          Michael N. Feuer (Written Testimony)

Watch the Full Hearing: https://bit.ly/3dtjQOK 

Public Notice

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 18, 2020

For Additional Information Contact:
Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings

 

On Thursday, May 28, 2020, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing beginning at 9:30 a.m. The meeting will be conducted via Zoom, under the provisions of the Bagley-Keene Act as revised by Governor’s Executive Order N-29-20.

 

Members of the public are encouraged to listen to the hearing by joining online or by phone. Click the URL to join online: https://littlehoover.zoom.us/j/99605804008?pwd=WnBldnlZRXBNY2RId1ZVTFJDdHZBQT09. To join via phone, call toll free from the U.S. by dialing (888) 788-0099. The webinar ID is 996-0580-4008. The password: 826167. We highly recommend members of the public access the meeting through the Zoom app. Please visit the Zoom website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362233-Where-Do-I-Download-The-Latest-Version- for instructions on how to download the Zoom app onto a computer or smartphone.

 

During the hearing, members of the public may indicate to staff that they wish to make public comment by using the “raise” hand feature in Zoom or sending an email to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov with your question and the phone number from which you have joined the meeting. As is the Commission’s normal procedure during physical meetings, public comments will be heard at the end of the meeting, following the final agenda item, and will be limited to three minutes each.

 

Witnesses may be taken out of order to accommodate speakers and to maintain a quorum. The meeting may be cancelled without notice.  

 

If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Little Hoover Commission at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Friday, May 22, 2020.

 

Please be aware that there may be delays in responding to emails or other communications to the Commission as our staff is now working remotely due to the coronavirus epidemic. We appreciate your patience.

Video

January 30
2020
Labor Trafficking Advisory Meeting
10 a.m., Controller's Conference Room #351, City Hall East, 200 North Main Street, Los Angeles
Advisory Committee Meeting
Agenda

Advisory Meeting on Labor Trafficking

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Controller's Conference Room, Room 351

City Hall East

200 North Main Street

Los Angeles, CA 90012

 

Opening Session: 10 a.m.

Introductory Comments

  • Pedro Nava, Chairman, Little Hoover Commission
  • Mike Feuer, City Attorney, Los Angeles

 

Discussion: How Can the State of California Enhance Identification of Labor Trafficking?

 

Discussion: How Can the State of California Improve Its Response to Labor Trafficking Cases?

 

Lunch Break (noon – 1 pm)

 

Afternoon Session: 1 p.m.

Presentation: How Other State Governments Organize to Combat Labor Trafficking

  • Maria Trujillo, Human Trafficking Program Manager, Colorado Human Trafficking Council (Presentation)

 

Discussion: What Should the State of California Borrow from Other States’ Responses to Trafficking?

 

Closing Remarks

 

Public Comments

 

Public Notice

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 16, 2020

For Additional Information Contact:
Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings

 

On Thursday, January 30, 2020, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct an advisory meeting on California state government’s role in identifying and combatting labor trafficking and assisting victims/survivors of this type of crime. The meeting will begin at 10 a.m. in the Controller’s Conference Room #351 located in City Hall East at 200 North Main Street in Los Angeles. The hearing will break at approximately noon for lunch, then reconvene at 1 p.m.

 

Times are approximate and subject to change. Agenda items may be taken out of order to accommodate speakers. The meeting may be cancelled without notice.  

 

The meeting is open to the public. Members of the public will have the opportunity to comment on any item on the Commission’s meeting agenda.

 

The Commission welcomes written comments on its study topics at any point during the study; please email written comments to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov.

 

If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Little Hoover Commission at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Monday, January 20, 2020.

 

Video

Morning Session: https://youtu.be/DQOiY08_OAc

Afternoon Session: https://youtu.be/77OyYqHCTXA

November 21
2019
Business Meeting
at approximately 12:30 p.m., San Diego Central Library, San Diego, CA
Business Meeting
Agenda

AGENDA

Business Meeting
Thursday, November 21, 2019
Commission Room, 9th Floor, San Diego Central Library
330 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 

The Commission will consider agenda items I-V at approximately 12:30 p.m. Members of the public will have an opportunity to make comments about Commission agenda items during the meeting.

I. Business Meeting Minutes from October 24, 2019

II. Administrative Update

III. Project Selection

a. Update on project schedule

IV. Implementation and Impact Activity

V. Reports from the California State Auditor’s Office

November 21
2019
Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking
10 a.m.-4:00 p.m., San Diego Central Library, San Diego, CA
Public Hearing
Agenda

 

PDF version of agenda available here (recommended for printing and downloading)

 

AGENDA

 

Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking
Thursday, November 21, 2019
Shiley Special Events Suite, 9th Floor, San Diego Central Library
330 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 

 

Public Hearing: 10 a.m.

Introductory Comments

1. Toni Atkins, President pro Tempore, California Senate

 

Perspectives from Labor Trafficking Survivors and Service Providers

2. Angela Guanzon, Survivor Advocate (Written Testimony)

3. Renuka Zellars, Survivor Advocate

4. Jamie Beck, President and Managing Attorney, Free to Thrive (Written Testimony)

 

15 Minute Break

 

Introduction to Labor Trafficking

5. Colleen Owens, founder and CEO of THE WHY; former Senior Research Associate, Urban Institute (Written Testimony, Supplement to Written Testimony)

6. Kathleen Kim, Professor of Law, Loyola Law School (Written Testimony)

 

Lunch Break

 

Hearing Reconvenes: 1:30 p.m.

Lessons from the field: How local governments are combatting Labor Trafficking

7. Summer Stephan, District Attorney, San Diego County (Written Testimony)

8. Nancy O’Malley, District Attorney, Alameda County (Written Testimony)

9. Lynette Gonzales, Deputy District Attorney, Fresno County (Written Testimony)

10. Anh Truong, Supervising Attorney, Sex & Labor Trafficking Unit, Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office (Written Testimony)

 

15 Minute Break

 

Looking Ahead: What is Needed to Strengthen California’s Response to Labor Trafficking?

11. Kay Buck, Chief Executive Officer, The Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking (Written Testimony, Supplement to Written Testimony)

12. Jean Bruggeman, Executive Director, The Freedom Network USA (Written Testimony)

 

Public Comments

 

The hearing is open to the public, although the Commission requests that those attending register at Eventbrite.com.

Public Notice

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 7, 2019

For Additional Information Contact:
Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings

 

On Thursday, November 21, 2019, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on California state government’s role in identifying and combatting labor trafficking and assisting victims/survivors of this type of crime. The hearing will begin at 10 a.m. in the Shiley Special Events Suite located on the 9th floor of the San Diego Central Library at 330 Park Blvd in San Diego. The hearing will break at approximately 12:30 p.m. for lunch and the Commission’s business meeting in the Commission Room on the 9th floor of the San Diego Central Library. It expects to conclude the business meeting at approximately 1:30 p.m., at which time it will reconvene the hearing on labor trafficking in the Shiley Special Events Suite.

The Commission may act on any item listed on the hearing or business meeting agenda. Times are approximate and subject to change. Agenda items may be taken out of order to accommodate speakers and to maintain a quorum. The meeting may be cancelled without notice.  

The hearing is open to the public, although the Commission requests that those attending register at Eventbrite.com. Members of the public will have the opportunity to comment on any item on the Commission’s hearing and business meeting agendas.

The Commission welcomes written comments on its study topics at any point during the study; please email written comments to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov. The Commission also welcomes written comments on any item on its business meeting agenda; please email business meeting comments by 12 p.m. on November 14, 2019, to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov.

If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Little Hoover Commission at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Monday, November 18, 2019.

Print Agenda
  • May 28
    2020
    Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking
    9:30 a.m.
    Public Hearing
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking

    9:30 a.m.

    Thursday, May 28, 2020

     

    Join Online or By Phone Via Zoom

    Online: https://littlehoover.zoom.us/j/99605804008?pwd=WnBldnlZRXBNY2RId1ZVTFJDd...

    Toll Free Phone: (888) 788-0099

    Webinar ID: 996-0580-4008

    Password: 826167

     

    Public Hearing: 9:30 a.m.

    Detecting Labor Trafficking

    1. Dominic Forrest, Chief of the Labor Enforcement Task Force, Department of Industrial Relations (Written Testimony)

    2. Jessica Fry, Attorney, California Labor Commissioner’s Office, Department of Industrial Relations

    3. Patricia Alatorre, Deputy Labor Commissioner, Retaliation Compliant Investigation Unit, Department of Industrial Relations

     

    Prosecuting Labor Trafficking Cases

    1. Kevin Kish, Director, Department of Fair Employment and Housing (Written Testimony)
    2. Amanda Plisner, Deputy Attorney General and Statewide Human Trafficking Coordinator, Department of Justice (Written Testimony)

     

    Helping Labor Trafficking Victims Access Services

    1. Gina Buccieri-Harrington, Assistant Manager for Grants Management, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Written Testimony, Attachment)
    2. Lynda Gledhill, Executive Officer, California Victim Compensation Board (Written Testimony)

     

    Public Comments

              Michael N. Feuer (Written Testimony)

    Watch the Full Hearing: https://bit.ly/3dtjQOK 

    Public Notice

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    May 18, 2020

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings

     

    On Thursday, May 28, 2020, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing beginning at 9:30 a.m. The meeting will be conducted via Zoom, under the provisions of the Bagley-Keene Act as revised by Governor’s Executive Order N-29-20.

     

    Members of the public are encouraged to listen to the hearing by joining online or by phone. Click the URL to join online: https://littlehoover.zoom.us/j/99605804008?pwd=WnBldnlZRXBNY2RId1ZVTFJDdHZBQT09. To join via phone, call toll free from the U.S. by dialing (888) 788-0099. The webinar ID is 996-0580-4008. The password: 826167. We highly recommend members of the public access the meeting through the Zoom app. Please visit the Zoom website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362233-Where-Do-I-Download-The-Latest-Version- for instructions on how to download the Zoom app onto a computer or smartphone.

     

    During the hearing, members of the public may indicate to staff that they wish to make public comment by using the “raise” hand feature in Zoom or sending an email to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov with your question and the phone number from which you have joined the meeting. As is the Commission’s normal procedure during physical meetings, public comments will be heard at the end of the meeting, following the final agenda item, and will be limited to three minutes each.

     

    Witnesses may be taken out of order to accommodate speakers and to maintain a quorum. The meeting may be cancelled without notice.  

     

    If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Little Hoover Commission at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Friday, May 22, 2020.

     

    Please be aware that there may be delays in responding to emails or other communications to the Commission as our staff is now working remotely due to the coronavirus epidemic. We appreciate your patience.

    Video

  • January 30
    2020
    Labor Trafficking Advisory Meeting
    10 a.m., Controller's Conference Room #351, City Hall East, 20
    Advisory Committee Meeting
    Agenda

    Advisory Meeting on Labor Trafficking

    Thursday, January 30, 2020

    Controller's Conference Room, Room 351

    City Hall East

    200 North Main Street

    Los Angeles, CA 90012

     

    Opening Session: 10 a.m.

    Introductory Comments

    • Pedro Nava, Chairman, Little Hoover Commission
    • Mike Feuer, City Attorney, Los Angeles

     

    Discussion: How Can the State of California Enhance Identification of Labor Trafficking?

     

    Discussion: How Can the State of California Improve Its Response to Labor Trafficking Cases?

     

    Lunch Break (noon – 1 pm)

     

    Afternoon Session: 1 p.m.

    Presentation: How Other State Governments Organize to Combat Labor Trafficking

    • Maria Trujillo, Human Trafficking Program Manager, Colorado Human Trafficking Council (Presentation)

     

    Discussion: What Should the State of California Borrow from Other States’ Responses to Trafficking?

     

    Closing Remarks

     

    Public Comments

     

    Public Notice

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    January 16, 2020

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings

     

    On Thursday, January 30, 2020, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct an advisory meeting on California state government’s role in identifying and combatting labor trafficking and assisting victims/survivors of this type of crime. The meeting will begin at 10 a.m. in the Controller’s Conference Room #351 located in City Hall East at 200 North Main Street in Los Angeles. The hearing will break at approximately noon for lunch, then reconvene at 1 p.m.

     

    Times are approximate and subject to change. Agenda items may be taken out of order to accommodate speakers. The meeting may be cancelled without notice.  

     

    The meeting is open to the public. Members of the public will have the opportunity to comment on any item on the Commission’s meeting agenda.

     

    The Commission welcomes written comments on its study topics at any point during the study; please email written comments to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov.

     

    If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Little Hoover Commission at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Monday, January 20, 2020.

     

    Video

    Morning Session: https://youtu.be/DQOiY08_OAc

    Afternoon Session: https://youtu.be/77OyYqHCTXA

  • November 21
    2019
    Business Meeting
    at approximately 12:30 p.m., San Diego Central Library, San Diego,
    Business Meeting
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Business Meeting
    Thursday, November 21, 2019
    Commission Room, 9th Floor, San Diego Central Library
    330 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 

    The Commission will consider agenda items I-V at approximately 12:30 p.m. Members of the public will have an opportunity to make comments about Commission agenda items during the meeting.

    I. Business Meeting Minutes from October 24, 2019

    II. Administrative Update

    III. Project Selection

    a. Update on project schedule

    IV. Implementation and Impact Activity

    V. Reports from the California State Auditor’s Office

  • November 21
    2019
    Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking
    10 a.m.-4:00 p.m., San Diego Central Library, San Diego, CA
    Public Hearing
    Agenda

     

    PDF version of agenda available here (recommended for printing and downloading)

     

    AGENDA

     

    Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking
    Thursday, November 21, 2019
    Shiley Special Events Suite, 9th Floor, San Diego Central Library
    330 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 

     

    Public Hearing: 10 a.m.

    Introductory Comments

    1. Toni Atkins, President pro Tempore, California Senate

     

    Perspectives from Labor Trafficking Survivors and Service Providers

    2. Angela Guanzon, Survivor Advocate (Written Testimony)

    3. Renuka Zellars, Survivor Advocate

    4. Jamie Beck, President and Managing Attorney, Free to Thrive (Written Testimony)

     

    15 Minute Break

     

    Introduction to Labor Trafficking

    5. Colleen Owens, founder and CEO of THE WHY; former Senior Research Associate, Urban Institute (Written Testimony, Supplement to Written Testimony)

    6. Kathleen Kim, Professor of Law, Loyola Law School (Written Testimony)

     

    Lunch Break

     

    Hearing Reconvenes: 1:30 p.m.

    Lessons from the field: How local governments are combatting Labor Trafficking

    7. Summer Stephan, District Attorney, San Diego County (Written Testimony)

    8. Nancy O’Malley, District Attorney, Alameda County (Written Testimony)

    9. Lynette Gonzales, Deputy District Attorney, Fresno County (Written Testimony)

    10. Anh Truong, Supervising Attorney, Sex & Labor Trafficking Unit, Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office (Written Testimony)

     

    15 Minute Break

     

    Looking Ahead: What is Needed to Strengthen California’s Response to Labor Trafficking?

    11. Kay Buck, Chief Executive Officer, The Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking (Written Testimony, Supplement to Written Testimony)

    12. Jean Bruggeman, Executive Director, The Freedom Network USA (Written Testimony)

     

    Public Comments

     

    The hearing is open to the public, although the Commission requests that those attending register at Eventbrite.com.

    Public Notice

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    November 7, 2019

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meetings

     

    On Thursday, November 21, 2019, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on California state government’s role in identifying and combatting labor trafficking and assisting victims/survivors of this type of crime. The hearing will begin at 10 a.m. in the Shiley Special Events Suite located on the 9th floor of the San Diego Central Library at 330 Park Blvd in San Diego. The hearing will break at approximately 12:30 p.m. for lunch and the Commission’s business meeting in the Commission Room on the 9th floor of the San Diego Central Library. It expects to conclude the business meeting at approximately 1:30 p.m., at which time it will reconvene the hearing on labor trafficking in the Shiley Special Events Suite.

    The Commission may act on any item listed on the hearing or business meeting agenda. Times are approximate and subject to change. Agenda items may be taken out of order to accommodate speakers and to maintain a quorum. The meeting may be cancelled without notice.  

    The hearing is open to the public, although the Commission requests that those attending register at Eventbrite.com. Members of the public will have the opportunity to comment on any item on the Commission’s hearing and business meeting agendas.

    The Commission welcomes written comments on its study topics at any point during the study; please email written comments to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov. The Commission also welcomes written comments on any item on its business meeting agenda; please email business meeting comments by 12 p.m. on November 14, 2019, to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov.

    If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Little Hoover Commission at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Monday, November 18, 2019.

May 28
2020
Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking
9:30 a.m.
Public Hearing
Agenda

AGENDA

Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking

9:30 a.m.

Thursday, May 28, 2020

 

Join Online or By Phone Via Zoom

Online: https://littlehoover.zoom.us/j/99605804008?pwd=WnBldnlZRXBNY2RId1ZVTFJDd...

Toll Free Phone: (888) 788-0099

Webinar ID: 996-0580-4008

Password: 826167

 

Public Hearing: 9:30 a.m.

Detecting Labor Trafficking

1. Dominic Forrest, Chief of the Labor Enforcement Task Force, Department of Industrial Relations (Written Testimony)

2. Jessica Fry, Attorney, California Labor Commissioner’s Office, Department of Industrial Relations

3. Patricia Alatorre, Deputy Labor Commissioner, Retaliation Compliant Investigation Unit, Department of Industrial Relations

 

Prosecuting Labor Trafficking Cases

  1. Kevin Kish, Director, Department of Fair Employment and Housing (Written Testimony)
  2. Amanda Plisner, Deputy Attorney General and Statewide Human Trafficking Coordinator, Department of Justice (Written Testimony)

 

Helping Labor Trafficking Victims Access Services

  1. Gina Buccieri-Harrington, Assistant Manager for Grants Management, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Written Testimony, Attachment)
  2. Lynda Gledhill, Executive Officer, California Victim Compensation Board (Written Testimony)

 

Public Comments

          Michael N. Feuer (Written Testimony)

Watch the Full Hearing: https://bit.ly/3dtjQOK 

Public Notice

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 18, 2020

For Additional Information Contact:
Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings

 

On Thursday, May 28, 2020, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing beginning at 9:30 a.m. The meeting will be conducted via Zoom, under the provisions of the Bagley-Keene Act as revised by Governor’s Executive Order N-29-20.

 

Members of the public are encouraged to listen to the hearing by joining online or by phone. Click the URL to join online: https://littlehoover.zoom.us/j/99605804008?pwd=WnBldnlZRXBNY2RId1ZVTFJDdHZBQT09. To join via phone, call toll free from the U.S. by dialing (888) 788-0099. The webinar ID is 996-0580-4008. The password: 826167. We highly recommend members of the public access the meeting through the Zoom app. Please visit the Zoom website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362233-Where-Do-I-Download-The-Latest-Version- for instructions on how to download the Zoom app onto a computer or smartphone.

 

During the hearing, members of the public may indicate to staff that they wish to make public comment by using the “raise” hand feature in Zoom or sending an email to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov with your question and the phone number from which you have joined the meeting. As is the Commission’s normal procedure during physical meetings, public comments will be heard at the end of the meeting, following the final agenda item, and will be limited to three minutes each.

 

Witnesses may be taken out of order to accommodate speakers and to maintain a quorum. The meeting may be cancelled without notice.  

 

If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Little Hoover Commission at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Friday, May 22, 2020.

 

Please be aware that there may be delays in responding to emails or other communications to the Commission as our staff is now working remotely due to the coronavirus epidemic. We appreciate your patience.

Video

January 30
2020
Labor Trafficking Advisory Meeting
10 a.m., Controller's Conference Room #351, City Hall East, 200 North Main Street, Los Angeles
Advisory Committee Meeting
Agenda

Advisory Meeting on Labor Trafficking

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Controller's Conference Room, Room 351

City Hall East

200 North Main Street

Los Angeles, CA 90012

 

Opening Session: 10 a.m.

Introductory Comments

  • Pedro Nava, Chairman, Little Hoover Commission
  • Mike Feuer, City Attorney, Los Angeles

 

Discussion: How Can the State of California Enhance Identification of Labor Trafficking?

 

Discussion: How Can the State of California Improve Its Response to Labor Trafficking Cases?

 

Lunch Break (noon – 1 pm)

 

Afternoon Session: 1 p.m.

Presentation: How Other State Governments Organize to Combat Labor Trafficking

  • Maria Trujillo, Human Trafficking Program Manager, Colorado Human Trafficking Council (Presentation)

 

Discussion: What Should the State of California Borrow from Other States’ Responses to Trafficking?

 

Closing Remarks

 

Public Comments

 

Public Notice

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 16, 2020

For Additional Information Contact:
Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings

 

On Thursday, January 30, 2020, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct an advisory meeting on California state government’s role in identifying and combatting labor trafficking and assisting victims/survivors of this type of crime. The meeting will begin at 10 a.m. in the Controller’s Conference Room #351 located in City Hall East at 200 North Main Street in Los Angeles. The hearing will break at approximately noon for lunch, then reconvene at 1 p.m.

 

Times are approximate and subject to change. Agenda items may be taken out of order to accommodate speakers. The meeting may be cancelled without notice.  

 

The meeting is open to the public. Members of the public will have the opportunity to comment on any item on the Commission’s meeting agenda.

 

The Commission welcomes written comments on its study topics at any point during the study; please email written comments to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov.

 

If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Little Hoover Commission at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Monday, January 20, 2020.

 

Video

Morning Session: https://youtu.be/DQOiY08_OAc

Afternoon Session: https://youtu.be/77OyYqHCTXA

November 21
2019
Business Meeting
at approximately 12:30 p.m., San Diego Central Library, San Diego, CA
Business Meeting
Agenda

AGENDA

Business Meeting
Thursday, November 21, 2019
Commission Room, 9th Floor, San Diego Central Library
330 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 

The Commission will consider agenda items I-V at approximately 12:30 p.m. Members of the public will have an opportunity to make comments about Commission agenda items during the meeting.

I. Business Meeting Minutes from October 24, 2019

II. Administrative Update

III. Project Selection

a. Update on project schedule

IV. Implementation and Impact Activity

V. Reports from the California State Auditor’s Office

November 21
2019
Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking
10 a.m.-4:00 p.m., San Diego Central Library, San Diego, CA
Public Hearing
Agenda

 

PDF version of agenda available here (recommended for printing and downloading)

 

AGENDA

 

Public Hearing on Labor Trafficking
Thursday, November 21, 2019
Shiley Special Events Suite, 9th Floor, San Diego Central Library
330 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 

 

Public Hearing: 10 a.m.

Introductory Comments

1. Toni Atkins, President pro Tempore, California Senate

 

Perspectives from Labor Trafficking Survivors and Service Providers

2. Angela Guanzon, Survivor Advocate (Written Testimony)

3. Renuka Zellars, Survivor Advocate

4. Jamie Beck, President and Managing Attorney, Free to Thrive (Written Testimony)

 

15 Minute Break

 

Introduction to Labor Trafficking

5. Colleen Owens, founder and CEO of THE WHY; former Senior Research Associate, Urban Institute (Written Testimony, Supplement to Written Testimony)

6. Kathleen Kim, Professor of Law, Loyola Law School (Written Testimony)

 

Lunch Break

 

Hearing Reconvenes: 1:30 p.m.

Lessons from the field: How local governments are combatting Labor Trafficking

7. Summer Stephan, District Attorney, San Diego County (Written Testimony)

8. Nancy O’Malley, District Attorney, Alameda County (Written Testimony)

9. Lynette Gonzales, Deputy District Attorney, Fresno County (Written Testimony)

10. Anh Truong, Supervising Attorney, Sex & Labor Trafficking Unit, Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office (Written Testimony)

 

15 Minute Break

 

Looking Ahead: What is Needed to Strengthen California’s Response to Labor Trafficking?

11. Kay Buck, Chief Executive Officer, The Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking (Written Testimony, Supplement to Written Testimony)

12. Jean Bruggeman, Executive Director, The Freedom Network USA (Written Testimony)

 

Public Comments

 

The hearing is open to the public, although the Commission requests that those attending register at Eventbrite.com.

Public Notice

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 7, 2019

For Additional Information Contact:
Ethan Rarick, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Notice of Meetings

 

On Thursday, November 21, 2019, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on California state government’s role in identifying and combatting labor trafficking and assisting victims/survivors of this type of crime. The hearing will begin at 10 a.m. in the Shiley Special Events Suite located on the 9th floor of the San Diego Central Library at 330 Park Blvd in San Diego. The hearing will break at approximately 12:30 p.m. for lunch and the Commission’s business meeting in the Commission Room on the 9th floor of the San Diego Central Library. It expects to conclude the business meeting at approximately 1:30 p.m., at which time it will reconvene the hearing on labor trafficking in the Shiley Special Events Suite.

The Commission may act on any item listed on the hearing or business meeting agenda. Times are approximate and subject to change. Agenda items may be taken out of order to accommodate speakers and to maintain a quorum. The meeting may be cancelled without notice.  

The hearing is open to the public, although the Commission requests that those attending register at Eventbrite.com. Members of the public will have the opportunity to comment on any item on the Commission’s hearing and business meeting agendas.

The Commission welcomes written comments on its study topics at any point during the study; please email written comments to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov. The Commission also welcomes written comments on any item on its business meeting agenda; please email business meeting comments by 12 p.m. on November 14, 2019, to littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov.

If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Little Hoover Commission at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Monday, November 18, 2019.