While the federal Trafficking Victims Protection Act offers important protections, it is only effective when federal law enforcement identifies a victim. Local service providers and local law enforcement are the eyes and ears in the community. In 2006, the Illinois State Legislature enacted anti-trafficking legislation (HB 1469) empowering local police to respond to potential trafficking situations and expanding access to social services for survivors in Illinois. With the legislation, Illinois became a model for other states working to combat human trafficking in their local communities.

HB 1469 Illinois Trafficking Legislation

National Immigrant Justice Center testimony on anti-trafficking measures before Cook County Women's Board (October 2006)

National Immigrant Justice Center testimony on HB 1469 (May 2005)