(Center Square) – Arizona State Senators Frank Carroll (R-Surprise) and House Majority Leader Leo Biacicucci (R-Lake Havasu) Facilitate They produced the documentary The Sound of Freedom as an extension of their campaign against human trafficking.

“Sound of Freedom” It’s being produced by Angel Studios, the Christian streaming company known for producing The Chosen and Tuttle Twins series. Set to hit theaters on July 4, the film tells the true story of retired Gov. Jim Ballard, who founded a non-profit organization. subway operation.

Carroll and Biacicucci have spent years passing legislation to combat human trafficking throughout Arizona. HB2889 2021 and HB2696 In 2022, enact tougher penalties for those convicted of trafficking and child abuse. Lawmakers also earmarked $10 million for law enforcement resources to combat human trafficking in the 2024 budget.

“We cannot continue to turn a blind eye to this serious issue that is robbing us of our innocence and endangering the lives of our precious children,” Carroll said. “It is our duty as legislators to protect those who are unable to protect themselves, and we recognize the dire need for common sense protections, not only by the governor, but by our colleagues on both sides of the congressional aisle. I will take action in the next session and I pledge to work tirelessly to bring these victims to justice and prevent further harm.”

According to the Arizona State University Child Welfare Center, 291 children in Maricopa County were victims of sex trafficking between 2017 and 2020.

“President Biden and his administration have deliberately denied border security, further enabling criminals to enslave and exploit children,” Biacicucci said. “Now states must act when the federal government fails. The safety and well-being of children is a top priority for me, Senator Carroll, and the entire Republican majority in Congress. We We must continue to do all we can and will continue to do so.” We can fight human smuggling and child sexual abuse. “