House Republicans say Illinois not doing enough to prevent human trafficking

[March 08, 2024]  By Kevin Bessler | The Center Square

(The Center Square) – Illinois House Republicans are introducing legislation to shore up the state's response to human trafficking.   

Illinois House Republicans hold a news conference about legislation to combat human trafficking
BlueRoomStream

State Rep. Jeff Keicher, R-Sycamore, said the anti-trafficking organization Shared Hope International recently gave Illinois an “F” grade for its current laws to address the problem.

“Of the six metrics that they use to grade a state’s efforts to protect victims of exploitation and support their recovery, Illinois only receives one passing grade of B for prosecuting abusers,” Keicher said. “That means we have a lot of work to do.”

Shared Hope International’s annual report card gave Illinois failing grades in the areas of continued care for victims, training for those in law enforcement, and prevention.