SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - To help combat the dangers of human trafficking, state Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, co-sponsored legislation that gets businesses to involved in informing the public about the availability of the National Human Trafficking Resource Center and takes effect on Jan. 1, 2016.
"This new law helps get the word out about the human trafficking epidemic and can help victims get help," Smiddy said. "Providing the public with information about the national anti-trafficking hotline can give victims extra help to get out of danger."
Illinois is a major transportation thoroughfare, offering an opportunity for spreading awareness about trafficking to travelers. Smiddy co-sponsored House Bill 2556, which requires some businesses in Illinois to post information about the National Human Trafficking Resource Center, a national anti-trafficking hotline. According to The End Demand Illinois, an anti-trafficking advocacy group, Illinois generated the fifth highest number of calls to the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline, preceded only by New York, Texas, California and Florida. Smiddy worked with advocates to create this law help stop trafficking without placing an undue burden on businesses.
"Human trafficking victims and survivors should be aware of support and services to get help and stay safe," Smiddy said. "It is my hope that this legislation will protect victims from perpetrators of violent crimes."
For more information, please contact Smiddy`s constituent service office at (309)-848-9098.
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