Illinois House Republicans have introduced a series of bills they say will address the critical shortcomings in Illinois’ efforts to combat human trafficking and provide essential protections for victims.
Representative Jeff Keicher of Sycamore says the Illinois Report Card on Child and Youth Sex Trafficking revealed alarming defincies in various areas crucial to protecting victims.
The lawmakers say addressing human trafficking requires a comprehensive approach to create a safer Illinois for all of its residents.
This is the list of bills House Republican members have filed in connection with the “Protect Victims of Human Trafficking Legislative Package."
HB 5134seeks to amend the Sex Offender Registration Act to include trafficking in persons, involuntary servitude, and involuntary sexual servitude of a minor in the definition of “sex offense,” enhancing monitoring and protection measures. (Rep. Nicole La Ha)
HB 5466proposes the removal of an affirmative defense for patronizing a minor engaged in prostitution, crucial for holding perpetrators accountable and safeguarding vulnerable minors. (Rep. Nicole La Ha)
HB 5467addresses the statute of limitations for prosecuting trafficking offenses involving minors, ensuring that justice can be pursued at any time if the victim was under 18 at the time of the offense. (Rep. Nicole La Ha)
HB 5465: This bill allows minors in juvenile court to petition for immediate sealing or expungement of their records if their involvement in a crime was a result of human trafficking (Rep. Jeff Keicher).
HB 5468: This bill creates an affirmative defense for victims of human trafficking who commit an offense as a result of being trafficked. It requires the victim to prove by clear and convincing evidence that they are victims of human trafficking (Rep. Jennifer Sanalitro).
HB 5469: This bill creates the Human Trafficking Order of Protection Act to allow victims of human trafficking to obtain orders of protection against their traffickers (Rep. Jennifer Sanalitro).
HB 5470: This bill adds “patronize” to involuntary sexual servitude of a minor in order to ensure buyers are held accountable as sex trafficking offenders (Rep. Brad Stephens).
