Dupage Policy Journal

State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro, along with fellow lawmakers, unveiled proposed legislation to combat human trafficking in Illinois during a press conference held on Thursday in Springfield. Sanalitro emphasized the gravity of the issue, stating, “Human trafficking is the most significant attack on human rights happening in our world today... It happens everyday and in every corner of our country and it sickens me we still are not at a point where it has been eradicated completely.”

Sanalitro further elaborated on the proposed bills designed to address human trafficking in Illinois. The first bill, HB5469, known as the Human Trafficking Order of Protection Act, aims to empower victims of human trafficking by allowing them to obtain orders of protection against their traffickers. This legislation acknowledges the unique challenges faced by trafficking victims and provides a legal avenue to shield them from further harm.

The second bill, HB5468, introduces an Affirmative Defense for Trafficking Victims, offering legal recourse for individuals who have been coerced into committing offenses while being trafficked. This bill establishes an affirmative defense for such victims, requiring them to present clear and convincing evidence of their trafficking situation. HB5468 recognizes the intricate circumstances surrounding trafficking victims and seeks to ensure that the legal system offers them protection and a pathway to justice.

In addition to outlining these crucial legislative initiatives, Rep. Sanalitro urged the public to be aware of the National Human Trafficking Prevention Hotline number, 888-373-7888, available on their official website. For further information or to arrange an interview with Representative Sanalitro, interested parties can contact 630-349-0645.

Representative Jennifer Sanalitro serves as the State Representative for House District 48, encompassing various communities in suburban DuPage and Cook counties, including Addison, Bensenville, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Elk Grove, Hanover Park, Itasca, Medinah, Roselle, Schaumburg, and Wood Dale.