Legislation that was written in direct response to a Turn To Tara investigation into human trafficking has now passed both houses of the New York state Legislature, clearing the way for Gov. Kathy Hochul’s signature.<\/p>\n
The legislation will create stiff financial penalties for hotels and motels that fail to post human trafficking hotline information as required under state law.<\/p>\n
The measure was drafted by Assemblywoman Amy Paulin in direct response to News 12’s yearslong trafficking in the tri-state coverage that exposed widespread non-compliance in the hospitality industry.<\/p>\n
The Turn To Tara team found that more than 80% of the 105 local hotels and motels that were visited were ignoring a law that was designed to help victims escape their exploiters – and giving the state an enforcement tool it previously did not have.<\/p>\n
State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins says fighting human trafficking is a top priority, and she was stunned by what News 12’s investigation revealed.<\/p>\n
“Well, it was outrage,” she said. “And obviously, it results in further legislation that will now hit the industry in their pocketbooks should they not adhere.”<\/p>\n
Supporters on both sides of the aisle now hope the bill’s passage sends a loud message that the state is committed to helping survivors and holding businesses accountable.<\/p>\n
The bill now awaits Hochul’s signature.<\/p>\n
In an exclusive interview earlier this year, Hochul made it clear she is prepared to sign it into law.<\/p>\n
“Human trafficking is abhorrent. I will be on board with whatever it takes to protect these individuals and to shut down the people who abuse them,” she said.<\/p>\n
Paulin says the bill’s passage is proof that hyperlocal investigative journalism can lead to real change.<\/p>\n
“There’s no question without your exposing the issue, we wouldn’t be here. So, we thank you so much,” she said.<\/p>\n
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