Illinois passes anti human trafficking bill

Illinois’ New Anti-Trafficking Law Boosts Hotel Safety

THE ILLINOIS SENATE Local Government Committee approved SB 1422, strengthening the hotel industry’s efforts to combat human trafficking by mandating employee training. The legislation allows local government and law enforcement to oversee compliance and issue penalties for violations.

Industry associations, including the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association, praised the bill introduced by Sen. Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island), which now awaits a vote by the full Senate.

“This legislation will allow local governments and local law enforcement to keep tabs on businesses to ensure they are giving their employees this crucial training,” said Halpin. “We must do everything we can to make sure our communities are safe, and combating human trafficking is a top priority.”

Current law requires certain hotel, restaurant and truck stop employees to complete human trafficking recognition training, as these businesses are high-risk, according to the U.S. State Department. SB 1422 strengthens these efforts by ensuring hotels provide the training and comply with set standards.

Keenan Irish, IHLA’s vice president of government relations and member engagement, said the bill strengthens enforcement of hotel employee training requirements, adding accountability.

“The hospitality industry plays a key role in identifying and combating human trafficking, and we are proud to partner with lawmakers to enhance these efforts,” she said. “We thank Sen. Michael Halpin for his leadership on this measure and remain committed to enacting policies that protect our guests and communities.”

SB 1422 strengthens accountability by allowing local municipalities to enforce hotel compliance with anti-trafficking training requirements, ensuring consistent enforcement and a safer hospitality sector in Illinois, IHLA said. The association also marked Human Trafficking Prevention Month in January, highlighting the multi-billion-dollar industry affecting 27.6 million people globally and its impact on Illinois communities.

Kashyap “Kash” Patel became the FBI’s ninth director after a 51-49 Senate vote, with AAHOA congratulating him. AAHOA’s anti-trafficking efforts include education, certification, and partnerships, sees Patel’s counterterrorism background as an asset to its mission.