Phoenix Councilwoman Betty Guardado Testifies in Support of Bipartisan Anti-Human Trafficking Legislation at House Judiciary Committee

PHOENIX, AZ — February 4, 2026 — Phoenix City Councilwoman Betty Guardado testified today before the Arizona House Judiciary Committee in support of bipartisan legislation focused on holding buyers accountable for exploitation while directing new resources toward preventing human trafficking and supporting victims.

Councilwoman Guardado spoke Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the House Hearing Room 4 at the Arizona State Capitol, 1700 W Washington St. 

The legislation—House Bill 2720 and its companion measure, Senate Bill 1535—is sponsored by Representative Selina Bliss and Senator Flavio Bravo. The bills strengthen accountability for individuals who create demand for exploitation and establish a dedicated funding stream for Arizona’s Anti-Human Trafficking Grant Fund to support victim services, law enforcement training, and prevention efforts statewide.

“This legislation reflects what neighborhoods and their leaders have been asking for years—a stronger focus on accountability for buyers paired with meaningful resources,” said Councilwoman Guardado. “I appreciate Representative Bliss and Senator Flavio Bravo for working together across party lines to advance this work. Their bipartisan leadership makes clear that protecting people from exploitation and supporting survivors is not a partisan issue.”

As a Phoenix City Councilmember, Guardado has worked closely with neighborhood leaders, community organizations, and public safety partners who have long called for policies that shift consequences toward those who drive exploitation while ensuring victims have access to support and services.

“From a local government perspective, accountability alone is not enough,” Guardado added. “Communities are safer when accountability is paired with prevention, training, and victim-centered services. House Bill 2720 and Senate Bill 1535 move Arizona in that direction.”

Councilwoman Guardado respectfully urges the House Judiciary Committee to support House Bill 2720 and Senate Bill 1535.

Media Contact:
Zul Lopez
Office of Councilwoman Betty Guardado, District 5
480.594.7506
zul.lopez@phoenix.gov