Richardson, House Pass Legislation Protecting Victims of Human Trafficking

COLUMBUS – The Ohio House along with the support of State Representative Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville) passed legislation Wednesday that will expunge certain non-violent crimes for victims of human trafficking.   

The legislation, Senate Bill 214, is a companion to Richardson’s House Bill 385. Both bills moved through committee with unanimous support. The legislation will expand the ability of human trafficking victims to expunge their criminal record of misdemeanors, fifth degree and fourth-degree felonies committed while they were victims of humans trafficking. 

“This bill offers hope by expanding expungement opportunities for the victims and survivors of human trafficking,” said Richardson. “They have suffered the atrocity of being forced to perform crimes against their will. This legislation establishes a pathway out of enslavement for certain victims and will give them an opportunity to reintegrate into society.”

In order for these crimes to be expunged, an individual must prove with clear and convincing evidence that their participation in the offense was a result of having been a victim of human trafficking. 

The legislation will now head to the Governor’s office for further consideration.