LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – Michigan leaders are unveiling a bipartisan package of bills to combat human trafficking, a crime Attorney General Dana Nessel calls “modern-day slavery.”
The legislation, introduced this week, increases penalties for traffickers and buyers. Raising prison sentences from 10 to 20 years and allowing life in prison if a minor is trafficked. It also provides new protections for survivors, including the ability to have convictions set aside if they stemmed from victimization.
“It thrives in the shadows. It is modern-day slavery.” Nessel said. “We must work together to make Michigan a far more dangerous place for traffickers to operate, and a far safer place for survivors to heal.”
Sen. John Damoose (R-Harbor Springs) says the plan shifts accountability from victims to those fueling the illicit economy, while advocates stress Michigan must close loopholes that traffickers exploit.
Michigan currently ranks near the bottom nationally for anti-trafficking laws, and supporters say these reforms aim to change that.
Resources: Victims or those with concerns can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888 or text 233733. In Michigan, call 855-MICH-TIP.
