SPRINGFIELD — Illinois has identified thousands of human trafficking victims in recent years, though officials believe the actual number is significantly higher. A new law sponsored by State Senator Julie Morrison aims to transform the state's response to trafficking cases by enabling faster victim identification and enhancing survivor support through improved coordination, training and services.

“This law reflects extensive collaboration between Illinois State Police, state agencies and lawmakers to address existing gaps in our current systems,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “By improving communication between agencies, we can ensure survivors receive compassionate support more quickly while making it harder for trafficking networks to operate within our state.”

The new law takes a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach to addressing human trafficking. The law builds on recommendations from the Joint Human Trafficking Working Group — created in 2023 with input from over 60 stakeholders and state agencies — and lays out a statewide strategic plan to support trafficking survivors. This includes creating standards of care for medical and legal providers and building a network of accessible services.

Under the new law, training will expand for staff in the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Department of Human Services, Department of Juvenile Justice and Department of Corrections to improve the ability to identify and support trafficking victims — particularly youth in state care. It also strengthens screening procedures for at-risk individuals within the justice system.

To improve investigations, the law supports the creation of multidisciplinary task forces to help law enforcement coordinate across jurisdictions. It also eliminates the 25-year statute of limitations for trafficking survivors, allowing survivors who were trafficked as minors to seek justice at any point in their healing process.

“Too often, survivors slip through gaps in our system because agencies work in isolation,” said Morrison. “This law will enable the state to build an integrated, responsive network that delivers real support to trafficking survivors.”

Senate Bill 2323 take effect Jan. 1, 2026.