Sen. Nangle introduces bill to support victims of trafficking in Maine

Legislation aims to protect critical services threatened by federal funding delays

AUGUSTA — When the 132nd Maine Legislature reconvenes in January, Sen. Tim Nangle, D-Windham, will introduce legislation to sustain essential services for survivors of human trafficking in Maine. The bill, “An Act to Support Victims of Trafficking in Maine in Response to Federal Funding Cuts,” was approved for introduction in the Legislature’s Second Regular Session by a majority of the Legislative Council at its October 23 meeting. All Democratic members of the Council voted in favor, while all Republican members opposed admitting the bill.

“Survivors of trafficking need stability, safety and support — not uncertainty caused by federal funding gaps,” said Sen. Nangle. “It’s clear we can’t count on the current administration in Washington to keep these vital programs going, so it’s up to us here in Maine to step up and ensure survivors continue receiving the compassionate, expert care they deserve.”

The bill would provide one-time state funding to maintain the work of Preble Street’s Anti-Trafficking Services program, Maine’s largest program serving survivors of human trafficking. The measure would aim to replace federal funding from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, which has been unexpectedly halted.

Since 2013, Preble Street’s Anti-Trafficking Services program has provided support to nearly 1,000 survivors of both sex and labor trafficking in Maine, including those forced into commercial sex work, domestic service, agricultural labor and other industries. The program offers intensive case management, housing support, medical and mental health referrals, legal advocacy, recovery connections and survivor leadership opportunities. It also works closely with law enforcement, healthcare providers and community partners across the state to strengthen awareness and coordination.

New legislation in the Second Regular Session of the Maine Legislature must be approved for introduction by the Legislative Council, which is made up of the Democratic and Republican leaders in the Maine Senate and House of Representatives.

The Legislature is set to reconvene for the Second Regular Session on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

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