SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro (R-Hanover Park) is pushing for stronger laws to fight human trafficking in Illinois while emphasizing that this crisis is happening in communities across the state.
“Human trafficking is not just a distant issue—it’s happening in our own neighborhoods,” said Rep. Sanalitro. “Traffickers prey on vulnerable individuals—especially minors—using force, fraud, and coercion to exploit them.”
“Illinois’ central location and extensive transportation networks, including major airports and highways, make it a hub for trafficking activity,” said Sanalitro. “Knowing this, we cannot turn a blind eye.”
To better protect victims, Rep. Sanalitro has introduced two pieces of anti-human trafficking legislation:
HB 1903 – The Human Trafficking Order of Protection Act, which allows victims to obtain legal protection from their traffickers.
HB 3237 –which ensures that trafficking victims are not punished for crimes they were forced to commit.
Both bills, filed in the 104th General Assembly, are awaiting further debate in committee.
“Our law enforcement officers are working tirelessly, but they need more support,” said Sanalitro. “We need stronger laws, more resources, and increased community awareness to stop these crimes.”
Rep. Sanalitro is urging her colleagues to take action now to protect trafficking victims and strengthen Illinois laws.
For more information, please contact State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro’s district office at 630-349-0645.
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State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro is the State Representative for House District 48, which includes the communities of Addison, Bensenville, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Elk Grove Village, Hanover Park, Itasca, Medinah, Roselle, Schaumburg, and Wood Dale in suburban DuPage and Cook counties.