Introduction to Human Trafficking in Illinois
A bipartisan bill aimed at streamlining Illinois’ response to human trafficking was signed into law by Gov. JB Pritzker on Wednesday. The law lays the framework for a coordinated trauma-informed response across state agencies to better address the varied needs of victims of human trafficking, which includes crimes of sex and labor trafficking.
Understanding Human Trafficking
“It is a modern form of slavery, that’s what it really is; you’re treating a human being like a piece of property, rather than a human being,” Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly said. “While there may be various laws on the books, and those laws can be effective, this legislation really takes it to the next level and allows us to have a much more effective effort as a state at addressing those shortcomings and really being very thoughtful and forward thinking.”
The Prevalence of Human Trafficking in Illinois
The National Human Trafficking Hotline received 792 contacts from Illinois in 2024, up from 696 in 2023. Meanwhile, in fiscal year 2024, 448 trafficking survivors reported receiving services from state agencies, up from 321 the year prior, according to the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority. State police note all trafficking numbers are likely only a fraction of the number of actual victims in Illinois, as human trafficking is often underreported and underidentified.
Key Provisions of the New Law
The new law also mandates the development of standardized victim-centered training for social service and law enforcement agencies. “Even more important than just getting the bad guy is helping the good guy, helping the person who’s been victimized, who’s been traumatized, be able to put their life back together,” Kelly said. “And that is extremely challenging.” Kelly acknowledged with plans for increased training and enforcement, there is always a cry for more resources and funding, but said many of these programs have been steadily built out.
Implementation and Coordination
Under the law, the Department of Children and Family Services will be required to create a new unit to coordinate human trafficking services and prevention. Illinois State Senator Julie Morrison (D-29th) sponsored the legislation and said it would “close gaps” in current efforts to address trafficking. “By breaking down silos between agencies, we can connect survivors to compassionate support faster and make it more difficult for trafficking networks to operate in the state,” Morrison said in a statement.
Conclusion
The new law is a significant step towards combating human trafficking in Illinois. By providing a coordinated response and standardized training, the state can better support victims and hold perpetrators accountable. The law takes effect Jan. 1, 2026, and it is expected to make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by human trafficking.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the new law?
A: The purpose of the new law is to streamline Illinois’ response to human trafficking and provide a coordinated trauma-informed response across state agencies.
Q: How many contacts did the National Human Trafficking Hotline receive from Illinois in 2024?
A: The National Human Trafficking Hotline received 792 contacts from Illinois in 2024.
Q: What is the role of the Department of Children and Family Services under the new law?
A: The Department of Children and Family Services will be required to create a new unit to coordinate human trafficking services and prevention.
Q: When does the law take effect?
A: The law takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.
