Pennsylvania lawmakers are taking new steps to combat human trafficking with the launch of a caucus in Harrisburg.
“For far too long, people who are in government positions have stuck their heads in the sand. They don’t want to see it. They don’t want to hear it. We have a group of legislators that have actually listened,” State Sen. Cris Dush (R-Cameron, Clinton, Elk, McKean & Potter counties) said.
The Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus was officially announced on Tuesday. With support from both sides of the aisle and chambers, leaders are fighting against the exploitation of men, women and children.
“We’re not missing where this crime is evolving because we have made progress. We’ve made real progress, but if we stop right here, we will fall behind,” State Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York County) said.
Survivor Jen Spry, now a registered nurse, remembers her encounters that started at just eight years old.
“Every day, I was sold to strangers — whatever customers were there. There were photographs. There were videos. I could barely tell you my name, but I knew I had to be at that house,” she said.
The goal is to strengthen laws, raise awareness and support victims and survivors across the Commonwealth.
The YWCA of Greater Harrisburg helps these individuals each day.
“We probably have somewhere around an average of 100 individuals, both new people and people who are continuing in our services using our Path 15 program,” YWCA of Greater Harrisburg Chief Operating Officer Rhonda Hendrickson said.
With in-house therapy, case managers and even living arrangements, the YWCA helps get people back on track. Staff members hope the caucus can invest in education and resources across the state to recognize the warning signs that could save someone’s life.
Per the Senate Republicans Communications Office, two bills have unanimous support already:
Specific anti-human trafficking legislation unanimously endorsed by the AHT Caucus steering committee includes:
Senate Bill 45 – Supported by the state Office of Attorney General, this legislation would move most prostitution-related offenses, such as patronizing prostitutes and promoting prostitution, to the Human Trafficking section of the state Crimes Code. The bill also expands the jurisdiction of the Attorney General’s office to better enable them to fight human trafficking across the commonwealth.
House Bill 910 – This legislation would upgrade the offense of trafficking infants from a first-degree misdemeanor to a first-degree felony.
Survivors like Spry hope that these conversations and efforts will protect our most vulnerable Pennsylvanians.
“[We must be] prioritizing what we need to, and that is the protection of children. Our children are the future, and what are we doing to protect that future?” Spry said.