Representative Patrick Sheehan works to prevent human trafficking

Awareness and prevention are at top of mind during Human Trafficking Prevention Month in January. State Representative Patrick Sheehan, a suburban law enforcement officer, is working to prevent human trafficking and punish those guilty of this heinous crime.

"As your State Representative, it is important to help raise awareness for human trafficking survivors and end this vicious crime, which impacts people from all walks of life," said Sheehan. "This month, I urge all Illinoisans to learn the signs of human trafficking."

Among the legislative proposals co-sponsored and supported by Representative Sheehan to combat human trafficking:

• Removing the statute of limitations for prosecuting human trafficking cases when the victim was under 18. (HB 1114, adopted into Public Act 104-241)
• Amending the Sex Offender Registration Act to include convictions for trafficking and involuntary servitude. (HB 1469)
• Provides no contributory fault may be attributed to a plaintiff bringing an action for damages for personal injury based on childhood sexual abuse (Public Act 103-1053)
• Removes time limit to prosecute offenses such as trafficking or involuntary servitude if the victim was under the age of 18 (HB 5467- 103^rd General Assembly)

The National Human Trafficking Hotline is available by calling 1-888-373-7888 or texting 233733.