DeKalb Times

Illinois House Republicans have proposed legislation to enhance the protection of human trafficking victims and prosecute offenders. This move comes in response to a failing grade given to the state by Shared Hope International, an advocacy group working against sex trafficking. The organization's 2023 report card indicated that Illinois' score had risen from 48 to 54.5 out of 100 between 2021 and 2023, but it still fell short of a passing grade.

"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," stated Rep. Jeff Keicher, R-Sycamore. He added that there is much work ahead, especially in aiding victims to rebuild their lives post-trauma.

Rep. Nicole La Ha, R-Homer Glen, also expressed concern over the state's performance in victim protection. "While we’ve made strides in certain areas, we’re failing in crucial aspects, particularly in victim protections," she said. She emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue as reflected by the failing grade received by Illinois.

The proposed legislation includes seven bills aimed at improving human trafficking protections and penalties with a focus on safeguarding minors and prosecuting offenders. One such bill is House Bill 5465 which would permit a human trafficking victim to seal or expunge their juvenile record for crimes committed while being trafficked as a minor.

"One of the first steps in helping someone heal after an immense trauma like sexual abuse is ensuring that their past doesn’t follow them around and keep them from being someone new," said Keicher, who sponsored both bills.

House Bill 5467 introduced by La Ha seeks to eliminate the statute of limitations for victims pressing charges for trafficking, involuntary servitude, and involuntary sexual servitude occurring when they were minors. Under current law, prosecution must commence within 25 years of the victim turning 18. La Ha stated that the bill allows victims to "come to terms with their trauma in their own time" by providing them a larger window to "bring their trafficker to justice."