Law Now Requires Human Trafficking Hotline Number Be Posted

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PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP, MI – Legislation written by a Plymouth Township lawmaker to help curb the trade of human beings as commodities was signed into law by Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder Tuesday.

The legislation requires that notices with national human trafficking hotline numbers be posted at various locations throughout bus, rail and air transportation hubs, rest stops, state welcome centers and other places where traffickers may not always have constant contact with their victims.

“We like to think that we live far removed from this kind of crime and traffickers count on that misconception,” Heise said. “Information is key to stop forced prostitution and slavery.”

In a statement, Snyder said the law is another tool for the state to fight human trafficking.

“Michigan has some of the strongest policies in the nation to help support trafficking victims and prevent this horrible crime,” he said. “Further increasing the visibility of important help line information and national support services goes one step further in encouraging an end to this dangerous and appalling practice.”

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Heise said the Human Trafficking Notification Act – now Public Act 62 of 2016 – will serve as a possible means of escape for victims or rescue by an informed member of the public.

How to Report Suspected Human Trafficking

Contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline at (888) 373-7888 or text 233733 to access help and services.