One of New York's most disturbing crises, human trafficking, often remains in the shadows. This grave injustice is modern slavery. Often dismissed as an international issue, this crime is a real and significant threat to many vulnerable individuals right here in the Empire State.
The International Labor Organization estimates that there are 21 million people living in bondage, and human trafficking is estimated to be one of the top-grossing global criminal industries, with traffickers profiting an estimated $32 billion annually. Victims are forced to engage in commercial sex, house work, farm work, and more without compensation or an avenue of escape. The majority of these victims live hidden from the public and the protection of the law.
There is an important resource — The National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline — that has not received the publicity that is so critical to its effectiveness. The hotline was established to provide help and services to the victims of human trafficking.
Common sense dictates that this hotline should be visible where those individuals being trafficked are likely to see it, including highway rest stops, bus stations, truck stops, airports, adult or sexually oriented businesses, and emergency care centers. Simple visibility can greatly increase the likelihood for victims to be rescued.
New York State Assembly Bill A.8154 mandates making it a requirement for all of these establishments to post information about the hotline. Supporting this legislation is essential as we work against human trafficking. New York must be a leader in the global effort against modern slavery.
Aravella Simotas is a Democrat representing Queens in the state Assembly; Richard Lee Price is a state Supreme Court justice.