IL House committee unanimously approves bill improving response to human trafficking

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A plan to improve how Illinois identifies and supports victims of human trafficking is heading to the House floor.

The National Human Trafficking Hotline has identified more than 5,600 trafficking victims in Illinois since 2007, but authorities estimate the true number of victims is much higher.

Senate Bill 2323 could establish a victim-centered and trauma-informed approach for services helping human trafficking victims. It would also require training for staff across the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Department of Human Services, Department of Juvenile Justice and Department of Corrections to identify and help victims.

Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly and Rep. Anny Williams (D-Chicago) explained this proposal is the product of two years of work between law enforcement, the state agencies, and more than 60 stakeholders who participated in the Joint Human Trafficking Working Group.

"Those social service organizations are likely going to be some of the key people involved in doing that training and making sure that training is developed in a way that addresses the issues that they as professionals are seeing are best in the situation to be able to identify," Kelly said.

The bill would also remove a 25 year time limit for victims to file lawsuits against their abuser. Sponsors and advocates note this could allow people trafficked as minors to seek justice sooner.

Senate Bill 2323 passed unanimously out of the House Executive Committee. The legislation previously passed unanimously out of the Senate.

"Human trafficking is a disturbing reality that robs people of their freedom," said Sen. Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest). "While the state has services and protocols in place to assist survivors, this proposal is focused on breaking down silos between agencies to ensure an effective, coordinated response."