Updated: 1/25 6:50 pm
Human trafficking is a growing problem in Central Pennsylvania, and some lawmakers think a phone call could help stop it.
Recently re-introduced legislation suggests a hotline to curb the growing problem.
Just a few months ago, a CBS 21 News exclusive story showed federal agents raiding a Dauphin County home, armed with a search warrant and looking for the possibility of human trafficking. In February 2010 in Berks County, CBS 21 News cameras showed a group of women forced to sell themselves for sex.
"This 'miracle mile' has brought business to our area, but also crime and prostitution. We have become a corridor of human trafficking," said State Sen. Pat Vance (R-Cumberland), referencing a stretch of road in Cumberland County. It's in such areas supporters want the hotline number displayed.
In the bill, State Sen. Daylin Leach (D-Montgomery) calls for the hotline number to be prominently displayed at all places with a liquor license, massage parlors, spas and nuisance motels/hotels.
"We know that many of those calls brought victims to shelters, out of those situations," said Julie Janovsky, with the Polaris Project.
Leach said already other states that made it law see a difference , and expect to see more bills to come aimed at the growing crime. In addition, supporters of human-trafficking victims are pushing for laws to help those victims move forward, such as expunging prostitution charges on victims' records.
The number for the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline is 1-888-373-7888. Callers can give tips or ask for advice.
Source: whptv.com
Central Pa. a 'corridor of human trafficking,' says lawmaker - CBS 21 News
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