The U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security convened on December 31, 2024, to address the pressing issue of migrant children who are trafficked, exploited, and missing under the Biden-Harris administration. The meeting focused on the urgent need for effective measures to combat child trafficking at the U.S. border.

During the discussions, committee members expressed concerns about the ongoing trafficking of children, emphasizing that simply closing the border may not be a comprehensive solution. One member highlighted the complexity of the issue, noting that profit-driven motives will always find a way to exploit vulnerable populations, regardless of border policies.

Witnesses at the meeting were asked to provide succinct recommendations for immediate actions to curb child trafficking. Mr. Carroll, one of the witnesses, stated that closing the border entirely—restricting access to tourists and commerce—would be a necessary step to prevent child trafficking. He emphasized that ports of entry are critical points where trafficking can occur, suggesting that more stringent controls are needed there.

The committee's discussions underscored the multifaceted nature of child trafficking and the challenges in implementing effective solutions. As the meeting concluded, the urgency for a coordinated response to protect migrant children was clear, with calls for both immediate action and long-term strategies to address the root causes of trafficking. The committee plans to continue exploring these issues in future sessions, aiming to develop actionable policies to safeguard vulnerable children at the border.