Springfield, IL – In a press conference on Thursday, State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro and fellow lawmakers highlighted proposed legislation to combat human trafficking in Illinois.
Rep Sanalitro said: “Human trafficking is the most significant attack on human rights happening in our world today and it might seem like a far away problem that won’t impact you, your family, or your community, but this is far from the truth”. Sanalitro continued, “It happens everyday and in every corner of our country and it sickens me we still are not at a point where it has been eradicated completely.”
Sanalitro then went on to highlight her proposals to address human trafficking in Illinois. The two bills proposed earlier in the spring session of the 2024 Illinois General Assembly both mark a significant step forward in the fight against human trafficking. Each hope to provide much-needed support and legal protection for victims of human trafficking.
HB5469: Human Trafficking Order of Protection Act
- This legislation enables victims of human trafficking to obtain orders of protection against their traffickers. HB5469 recognizes the unique challenges faced by trafficking victims and offers a legal mechanism to shield them from further harm. The bill demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of the most vulnerable in our society.
HB5468: Affirmative Defense for Trafficking Victims
- HB5468 provides a crucial legal recourse for victims of human trafficking who have been compelled to commit offenses. This bill creates an affirmative defense for such victims, requiring them to demonstrate clear and convincing evidence of their trafficking situation. HB5468 acknowledges the complex circumstances of trafficking victims and aims to ensure that the legal system offers them protection and a path towards justice.
In addition to sharing information on these critical legislative proposals, Rep. Sanalitro is encouraging everyone to know the National Human Trafficking Prevention Hotline number of 888-373-7888 found on their official website here.
For more information or to schedule an interview with Representative Sanalitro, please contact 630-349-0645.
State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro is the State Representative for House District 48, which includes the communities of Addison, Bensenville, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Elk Grove, Hanover Park, Itasca, Medinah, Roselle, Schaumburg, and Wood Dale in suburban DuPage and Cook counties.