State Rep. La Ha Files Bills Against Human Trafficking

HOMER GLEN, IL — State Representative Nicole La Ha, of Homer Glen, has been a vocal advocate among House Republican lawmakers in the fight against human trafficking. House Republicans have now put forth several bills which they hope put forth viable solutions to this crime, according to a news release.

La Ha has filed three bills, including: HB 1114, which removes the statute of limitations for prosecuting crimes such as involuntary servitude, involuntary sexual servitude of a minor, or trafficking in persons when the victim was under 18 at the time of the offense; HB 1467, which eliminates the affirmative defense of "mistake of age" for individuals accused of patronizing a minor engaged in prostitution; and HB 146, which amends the Sex Offender Registration Act to include offenses such as trafficking in persons, involuntary servitude, and involuntary sexual servitude of a minor, requiring offenders to register as sex offenders.

LaHa’s legislation ensures victims have the time they need to come forward, holds offenders accountable and provides transparency in communities to promote awareness of the severity of human trafficking, a release states.

"Today, we took a stand against the horrific reality of human trafficking in Illinois,” La Ha said. “I’m working to ensure traffickers are held fully accountable, and that survivors have the time, resources, and support they need to seek justice. We must take action to make sure those responsible face the consequences of their crimes.”

“I want to thank the advocates and survivors who have shared their stories with me. Your voices matter, and your courage fuels this fight,” continued La Ha. “I will continue pushing this legislation forward and working on new measures to support you and ensure traffickers are brought to justice. Every step we take brings us closer to protecting our vulnerable and ending this heinous crime.

State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro, of Carol Stream, noted that Illinois’ central location and access to airports, highways and other transportation networks has only propelled human trafficking in the state.

“I talk with law enforcement officers on a regular basis and I know they are working hard, but their resources are stretched thin,” continued Sanalitro. “As lawmakers, we need stronger laws, more funding, and more community engagement to combat these crimes. Every second we wait, another victim is at risk.”

Rep. Sanalitro introduced the bills she’s backing and called on her colleagues to work together to stop human trafficking and protect the vulnerable. Her bills include: HB 1903, which allows victims to obtain legal protection against their traffickers, and HB 3237, which ensures victims are not punished for crimes they were forced to commit while being trafficked.