Senate Bill 2323, a new bipartisan proposal, seeks to improve Illinois’ response to human trafficking by streamlining support services and enhancing coordination among state agencies. The bill takes a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach, designed to better identify, assist, and protect trafficking victims across the state.

Based on recommendations from the Joint Human Trafficking Working Group, formed in 2023 with input from over 60 stakeholders, the bill proposes a strategic plan to build a comprehensive network of services for survivors. This includes the creation of standards of care for medical and legal service providers.

Key provisions of Senate Bill 2323 include:

• Coordinated Services for Victims: The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will lead prevention efforts, provide resources for staff, and coordinate services for youth in care who have been victims of human trafficking or are at high risk of being trafficked.
• Expanded Training for Key Agencies: The bill requires expanded training for staff in DCFS, the Department of Human Services, the Department of Juvenile Justice, and the Department of Corrections to better identify and assist victims, especially youth in state care. It also aims to improve screening processes for at-risk populations in the justice system.
• Multidisciplinary Task Forces: Senate Bill 2323 will create multidisciplinary law enforcement task forces to coordinate investigations and responses across jurisdictions, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of human trafficking cases.
• Extended Legal Rights for Survivors: The bill removes the 25-year time limit for victims to bring lawsuits against their abusers, ensuring that survivors trafficked as minors can seek justice at any stage of their healing process.

Senate Bill 2323 passed the Senate Criminal Law Committee on March 18.