About the Tennessee Business Against Tracking initiative

Six Rivers Media talked with Office of Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett's Director of Communications Ben Hill about the Tennessee Business Against Trafficking initiative. Hill's responses about the program are listed below. Q: When did this initiative begin, and what led to its creation? A: "Secretary Hargett initially heard of the program at the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) conference and decided to start Tennessee's version of the program. Secretary Hargett has explained that the office's relationship with hundreds of thousands of Tennessee businesses created an opportunity to expand trafficking awareness and prevention throughout the business community. TBAT connects those businesses with training that helps employees recognize warning signs and safely report suspected trafficking. "Tennessee Businesses Against Trafficking officially launched in February 2024, following legislation passed by the General Assembly in 2023. The initiative was created to engage businesses and their employees in identifying, preventing, and reporting human trafficking." Q: What does participation mean, and how do businesses help fight human trafficking? A: "Participating businesses commit to adopting a zero-tolerance policy toward human trafficking, taking part in training and awareness efforts, encouraging participation, and sharing effective practices with the Secretary of State's office. "TBAT provides free training to help employees recognize potential trafficking and understand how to report concerns to the appropriate authorities. Training is available online or virtually and takes less than an hour. Businesses help by educating employees, raising awareness, and applying what they learn in their workplaces and communities." Q: How many partner businesses currently exist? A: "Following a program reorganization earlier this year, there are currently 134 TBAT businesses certified or in process of being certified. Certification must be renewed every two years to ensure certification requirements are met." Q: Are any of the partner businesses located in Northeast Tennessee? A: "Yes, The Paramount Foundation, Tri Cities House and Pet Sitting, MarketingMel, and Soleus Massage are a few. Community Coalition Against Human Trafficking, Mental Health Transformation Alliance, Aging In Place, Inc., RR MedHealth Consulting, LLC also have northeast TN ties." Q: What is the best way for local businesses to get involved? A: "Businesses can start by visiting tbat.tnsos.gov and completing the partner application. They can then arrange training to help employees recognize trafficking warning signs and respond appropriately. Businesses can also contact tbat.sos@tnsos.gov for assistance. The program encourages participants to raise awareness and invite other businesses to join."