SPRINGFIELD — The National Human Trafficking Hotline has identified more than 5,600 trafficking victims in Illinois alone since 2007 — and authorities estimate the true number of victims to be much higher. To improve how the state identifies and supports victims of human trafficking, State Senator Julie Morrison advanced a bipartisan proposal that would strengthen training and streamline services among agencies.

“This legislation is the product of two years of work among the Illinois State Police and state agencies on how the state can close many of the gaps that exist in current processes,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “With these changes, we put ourselves in a better position to identify victims earlier and get them the help they need.”

Senate Bill 2323 works to address human trafficking in Illinois through a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach. Based on recommendations from the Joint Human Trafficking Working Group — formed in 2023 with input from over 60 stakeholders and state agencies — the bill would establish a strategic plan to build a network of services for trafficking survivors, including the creation of standards of care for medical and legal service providers.

Morrison’s measure would expand training for staff in the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Department of Human Services, Department of Juvenile Justice and Department of Corrections to help identify and assist victims, particularly youth in state care, as well as improve screening procedures for at-risk populations within the justice system.

To facilitate law enforcement’s ability to respond to human trafficking cases, the proposal supports the creation of multidisciplinary task forces to coordinate investigations across jurisdictions. Senate Bill 2323 would also remove the 25-year time limit for victims to bring a lawsuit against their abuser, allowing survivors who were trafficked as minors to seek justice at any point in their healing process.

“Human trafficking is a disturbing reality that robs people of their freedom,” said Morrison. “While the state has services and protocols in place to assist survivors, this proposal is focused on breaking down silos between agencies to ensure an effective, coordinated response.”

Senate Bill 2323 passed the Senate on Wednesday.