The Arizona Senate Health and Human Services Committee meeting on October 1, 2025, highlighted urgent concerns regarding the safety of reporting mechanisms for victims of trafficking and fraud within Native communities. Raven Stewart, representing the Turtle Island Women Warriors, announced that the organization has ceased filing reports to federal oversight bodies due to fears of retaliation and intimidation against volunteers and survivors.

Stewart emphasized that reports submitted to the Office of Inspector General (OIG) and other agencies were being returned to the very facilities under investigation, compromising the safety of those involved. She stated, "This is unacceptable. It undermines every legitimate investigation and endangers grassroots organizations." The organization is calling for immediate action from elected leaders to protect victims and ensure confidentiality in reporting.

Key requests from Stewart included a formal request for the OIG to stop sharing reports with investigated parties, the establishment of strict confidentiality protections, and the creation of a secure independent reporting mechanism. She stressed the need for a system that allows organizations to submit evidence without fear of it being leaked back to perpetrators.

The discussion also included a clarification from Senator Gabaldon regarding the number of complaints filed, with Stewart confirming that over a thousand complaints had been reported directly to the OIG and the FBI, although confirmation of receipt was only received in March 2024.

The meeting underscored the critical need for reform in reporting processes to protect vulnerable communities and ensure that grassroots organizations can continue their advocacy without endangering those they serve. The committee's response to these concerns will be pivotal in shaping future protections for victims of trafficking and fraud.