Bipartisan proposal aims to combat human trafficking in Michigan

State Rep. Bronna Kahle today helped announce a sweeping bipartisan plan to support survivors of human trafficking, putting them on a path to healing and recovery.

Kahle, of Adrian, said the legislation was inspired by testimony from survivors and others during events held during Human Trafficking Awareness Month in January. In addition to hearings in Lansing, Kahle also traveled to Washington, D.C. on Jan. 31 to attend the White House Summit on Human Trafficking.

“Victims of human trafficking have endured conditions few of us could imagine,” Kahle said. “They have suffered enough. We need to work together to combat this heinous crime by supporting efforts that help victims become self-supporting, productive citizens who can hold their head high, with pride in their independence, knowing they are valued and special.”

The plan included in House Bills 5634-56 would:

• Expand the types of criminal convictions that can be set aside if a crime was committed because someone is a victim of human trafficking.
• Allow human trafficking victims who were forced to engage in criminal activity the opportunity to use their victimization as an affirmative defense in court.
• Allow juvenile offenses committed by a young victim of trafficking to be expunged from their criminal record.
• Change references of “prostitution” to “commercial sexual activity” in state law.
• Update and clarify several court procedures for human trafficking cases.

Kahle said human trafficking is one of the fastest-growing crimes in the world, second only to drug trafficking as the most profitable form of crime, according to the U.S. Department of State. Approximately $87 million is made per day from sex trafficking transactions.

“Most people don’t realize human trafficking is happening in Michigan, right in the same communities where we live, work and raise our families,” Kahle said. “I won’t stop working until every victim has an opportunity to embark on a path to healing, recovery and a bright future. We cannot stop fighting until we end this evil scourge.”

The plan has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee for consideration.

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