Illinois has earned an “A” grade on Shared Hope International’s Just Like Me Report Cards, a leap from a previous “F,” thanks to new trauma-informed human trafficking legislation. Governor JB Pritzker recently signed the Illinois Statewide Trauma-Informed Response to Human Trafficking Act, establishing a unified, coordinated approach for supporting survivors. The act mandates comprehensive training for officials and enhanced screening across high-risk industries and state care systems. Illinois, one of three states with an “A” grade, is now second in the nation for its policies protecting trafficking survivors. Anyone suspecting human trafficking is urged to call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text *233733. Additional tips can be emailed to [email protected]. Staying alert to these signs plays a crucial role in protecting vulnerable individuals in our communities.
“Illinois is now among the leading states in the fight against human trafficking, and this new ‘A’ ranking from Shared Hope International represents my administration’s enduring commitment to keeping all Illinoisans safe,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This year, I proudly signed pivotal legislation that established a coordinated, multi-agency effort to better support survivors of human trafficking. Using trauma-informed strategies to identify and support survivors across Illinois, these imperative measures are helping us protect and empower our most vulnerable.”
“Supporting people who have been trafficked, a modern day form of slavery, is a moral imperative that requires a comprehensive framework involving coordination between public and private partners,” said ISP Director and Joint Human Trafficking Work Group Chair Brendan F. Kelly. “By supporting survivors, law enforcement can be more effective in going after traffickers using the information and knowledge survivors are now more comfortable sharing with law enforcement, knowing that resources are available to build a new life.”
Illinois is intensifying its fight against human trafficking through a new statewide initiative. Working alongside the Illinois Department of Human Services and over 60 advocacy and state agencies, the Act mandates expanded screening of individuals in state care. It requires specialized training for investigators to spot trafficking in high-risk sectors like hospitality and agriculture. The law also sets standards for care and support services, aiming for a trauma-informed approach to help survivors recover and reintegrate. The recently formed Illinois Trafficking Enforcement Group unites local law enforcement and community partners to enhance detection and provide crucial resources. Learn more at humantraffickinghotline.org.
“This progress reflects the power of community – survivors, advocates, and public servants coming together to build systems rooted in dignity and care,” said Secretary of the Illinois Department of Human Services and Joint Human Trafficking Working Group Co-Chair , Dulce M. Quintero. “At IDHS, we know healing doesn’t happen in isolation – it grows from connection, from being seen, and from having access to support that honors each person’s experience. This Act strengthens our shared capacity to respond with humanity and purpose.”
Illinois has taken significant steps to combat human trafficking with the recent formation of the Illinois Trafficking Enforcement Group, known as ITEG. This state-led initiative brings together law enforcement, social workers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to strengthen networks of support for survivors. The Act mandates a statewide plan, sets new standards for care, and emphasizes training for agencies and service providers, including those working specifically with children. Officials stress the importance of recognizing subtle signs of trafficking.
The Illinois Trafficking Enforcement Group, or ITEG, is modeled after successful drug enforcement groups. ITEG brings together local and state agencies to dismantle trafficking operations and support survivors. The initiative also collaborates with community and health organizations, providing trauma-informed care for victims. Signs of human trafficking can be hard to spot—anyone with suspicions can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text *233733. More resources are available at www.humantraffickinghotline.org.
