Continued from October 2026 blog
“Wherever human trafficking is occurring, we must work to stop it,” said La Ha. “I continue our work to shore up our laws addressing this problem; providing victims help to recover and bringing traffickers to justice.”
Human trafficking is a concern all over the country. Many trafficking networks pass through Illinois because of its location, major highways and airports like O’Hare in Chicago.
lllinois has been addressing the problem, moving from an “F” to an “A” rating in the Shared Hope International Just Like Me Scorecard. The state ranks in the top ten for with human trafficking cases, according to State Rep. Jed Davis’ website.
Governor JB Pritzker signed the lllinois Statewide Trauma-Informed Response to Human Trafficking Act last summer.
“50,123 signals were received by the National Human Trafficking Hotline in 2021 alone. That includes calls, texts, and online chats and tips. That number shows the staggering need for such resources.” said La Ha. The law gives people like these who are in need of help a chance to receive it not only by helping victims reach out, but also by allowing bystanders to recognize the signs of human trafficking and help victims too.
“These signs serve as a reminder to us all that if we see something, we should say something, and they direct us to who we can contact. Even if these signs help save the life of a single person in need, this effort will be more than worth it.” said La Ha.
The Illinois Department of Transportation has until January 1, to install the signs.