The Illinois House Judiciary Committee has unanimously approved State Representative Nicole La Ha’s first bill which seeks to eliminate the statute of limitations for human trafficking offenses that involve children under the age of 18 years old. Children account for 27% of all the human trafficking victims worldwide and the trauma they endure will last a lifetime. This legislation will provide child survivors of trafficking unlimited time to come to terms with their abuse and the opportunity to pursue justice in their own time.
“By extending the prosecution window for crimes against minors, we are not only ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their reprehensible actions but also providing survivors with a renewed sense of hope and validation,” Rep. La Ha said. “I am deeply grateful to my colleagues for their unwavering support and dedication to this crucial cause.”
House Bill 5467 received bipartisan support. Under the provisions of the bill, when the victim is under 18 years of age at the time of the offense, a prosecution for involuntary servitude, involuntary sexual servitude of a minor, or trafficking in persons and related offenses may be commenced at any time. La Ha’s legislation represents a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking by safeguarding the rights and well-being of minors across the state of Illinois.
Justice for children should not be hindered by arbitrary time constraints. La Ha’s legislation provides survivors of human trafficking with the justice they rightfully deserve.
The bill will next go before the full Illinois House for consideration. If passed it will proceed to the Senate for a hearing in committee.
Learn more about how Rep. Nicole La Ha and her fellow House Republicans are fighting against human trafficking here: Reps. La Ha, Sanalitro, Keicher, and Stephens Present Protect Victims of Human Trafficking Legislative Package (Video) – Nicole La Ha (replaha.com)
Representative Nicole La Ha currently serves as the State Representative for Illinois’ 82nd District, which includes Willowbrook, Burr Ridge, Willow Springs, Darien, Western Springs, Homer Glen, Lemont, and portions of Countryside, Downers Grove, Hickory Hills, Hinsdale, Indian Head Park, LaGrange, Justice, Orland Park, Palos Park, and Woodridge.