Majority Whip Santucci Recognizes Human Trafficking Awareness Day

Majority Whip Nick Santucci (R-Niles) today would like to recognize Human Trafficking Awareness Day, in honor of the survivors and victims of this heinous crime and to highlight efforts focused on prevention in Ohio. 

“Human trafficking is a serious and deeply harmful crime, and Ohio has a responsibility to take strong action to prevent it,” said Majority Whip Nick Santucci. “House Bill 47 sends a clear message that those who exploit, kidnap, and traffic others, especially children and vulnerable individuals, will face severe consequences and are not welcomed in the state of Ohio. By strengthening penalties and prioritizing victims, we are taking meaningful action to protect our communities and ensure justice for survivors.”

Santucci led efforts to advance House Bill 47 - legislation to increase criminal penalties for human trafficking, kidnapping and abduction. Ohio has one of the highest numbers of reported cases of human trafficking in the nation, with a majority of those cases involving sex trafficking. Currently, Ohio law only allows for a prison term between 10 to 15 years for a person who has been convicted of human trafficking. 

The Human Trafficking Prevention Act will expand penalties for human trafficking from 10-15 years in prison to a minimum of 15 years. This legislation will also provide protections for victims who are under the age of 18 or developmentally disabled by increasing sentences to 25 years to life in prison. 

House Bill 47 passed the House and has been assigned to the Judiciary Committee in the Ohio Senate for further consideration. 

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please contact the Ohio Attorney General’s office by calling the Ohio Human Trafficking Hotline at 844-363-6448.