Rep. Allie-Brennan Calls For Stronger Action On Human Trafficking

**News Release Submitted by State Representative Raghib Allie-Brennan**

March 13, 2025

Following the recent human trafficking bust in Danbury, State Representative Raghib Allie-Brennan (D-Bethel, Danbury) is calling for stronger oversight and enforcement measures to combat human trafficking in Connecticut.

“The fact that human trafficking is happening right here in our community is both horrifying and unacceptable,” said Rep. Allie-Brennan. “While Connecticut has made progress in recent years, it’s clear that we must do more to hold traffickers accountable, protect victims, and ensure our businesses are partners in stopping this crisis.”

Connecticut’s Recent Anti-Trafficking Efforts:

Over the past few years, Connecticut has strengthened its laws and resources to fight human
trafficking, including:

• Public Act No. 21-103 (2021): Enhanced penalties for traffickers, expanded victim protections, and mandated training for professionals to identify trafficking.
• Regional Human Trafficking Recovery Taskforce (2023): A collaborative effort between law enforcement, prosecutors, and victim services to dismantle trafficking networks.
• Victim Support Services: Organizations like Love146 have provided survivor care to nearly 1,000 young people in Connecticut.
• Public Awareness Initiatives: In 2025, Bradley International Airport launched a statewide anti-trafficking awareness campaign to assist victims and educate travelers.

New Legislation: SB 971

Rep. Allie-Brennan is actively working with the General Law Committee on SB 971, a bill that would require hotels, motels, and inns to participate in state-led standardized anti-trafficking training and impose civil penalties for non-compliance.

“The hospitality industry plays a crucial role in recognizing and stopping human trafficking,” said Rep. Allie-Brennan. “SB 971 will ensure that every lodging facility in Connecticut is part of the solution, not part of the problem.”

Moving Forward

The Danbury incident serves as a wake-up call that more robust laws, increased enforcement, and stronger victim protections are necessary. Rep. Allie-Brennan remains committed to strengthening Connecticut’s anti-trafficking efforts and ensuring the safety of all residents. If you or someone you know is in danger, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1- 888-373-7888 or text "HELP" to 233733.