Schaffer Welcomes Survivors of Human Trafficking to Statehouse

COLUMBUS—State Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) today spoke to survivors and those on the front lines of fighting human trafficking during Ohio's annual Human Trafficking Awareness Day at the Ohio Statehouse. The event brings together advocates from around the state to focus on efforts to end human trafficking. “Human Trafficking is modern day slavery and it is happening right under our noses, in our communities,” said Schaffer. “It is important for all Ohioans to take the time to learn the signs of trafficking and ways we can all be involved in preventing it.” The Ohio Senate has passed a series of bills over the last several years aimed at combatting the problem through better enforcement, increased support for survivors, and promoting greater public awareness to empower Ohioans to recognize crucial warning signs and report suspected cases. As part of these efforts, Senator Schaffer and Senator Theresa Fedor (D-Toledo) recently introduced Senate Bill 247, which creates a statewide database of those who are engaging in prostitution in public. It will establish new laws and punishments for those who are convicted of engaging in, soliciting, or earning anything of value from prostitution.

“This legislation gives the State of Ohio an opportunity to be at the forefront of the nation in terms of curbing human trafficking and prostitution,” Schaffer said. To learn more about Ohio's Human Trafficking Task Force, click here.