The office's goals are to make the public aware, protect victims, take legal action against violators, establish necessary and just sentences for criminals, and train law enforcement individuals.

This enabling legislation required the President to create a bureau within the State Department to specifically address human trafficking and exploitation on all levels and to take legal action against perpetrators.

Additionally, this act was designed to also enforce all laws within the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution that apply.

Individuals may call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center[6] (1-888-373-7888) to report a potential case of human trafficking; to connect with local anti-trafficking services; or to request training and technical assistance, general information, or specific anti-trafficking resources.

The hotline is funded by the Department of Health and Human Services, but is operated by Polaris Project, a non-governmental organization.