Reps. McNally, Munira Introduce Safe Stops Act: Preventing Human Trafficking on Our Roads
COLUMBUS – State Reps. Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) and Munira Abdullahi (D-Columbus) today introduced House Bill (HB) 63, the Safe Stops Act: Preventing Human Trafficking on Our Roads. This legislation would require the maintenance of security cameras at rest areas which the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has jurisdiction.
“We heard from passionate Ohioans about the need for additional safety features at rest stops so people can truly have safe stops along the highway,” said Rep. McNally. “I’m very proud to be reintroducing this legislation alongside Rep. Munira and making sure our state budgeting process prioritizes this important and practical crime deterrent.”
“The security and safety of our constituents is my top priority, particularly for those demographics most vulnerable to violent crimes. With Ohio ranking 4th in the nation for human trafficking, this is a deeply concerning issue that requires a collective, multi-faceted response,” said Rep. Munira. “HB 63 is designed to enhance the safety of our communities while also serving as a deterrent to future crimes. By addressing this issue head-on, we can help protect the most vulnerable and ensure a safer, more secure future for all.”
The Safe Stops Act: Preventing Human Trafficking on Our Roads was introduced in the previous General Assembly as HB 473, which passed the House Homeland Security Committee but did not become law. Supporters of HB 473 included the Alliance Against Human Trafficking, Mahoning County Prosecutor Gina DeGenova, and the Ohio Association for Justice Women's Caucus who all spoke on the impact the legislation would have on combating human trafficking and deterring and solving crime at Ohio’s 85 rest stops.
In addition to introducing the Safe Stops Act: Preventing Human Trafficking on Our Roads, Reps. McNally and Munira have advocated for an amendment to the state’s transportation budget that would include the language from the legislation, improving the likelihood of its passage. Lawmakers are currently deliberating the state’s transportation budget, which will be signed into law by the end of March.