Bartlett anti-human trafficking bill passes House of Representatives

House Bill 1416, authored by State Rep. John L. Bartlett (D-Indianapolis), passed through the Indiana House of Representatives unanimously.

The bill requires gas stations, safety rest areas and welcome centers to display human trafficking awareness posters. It also requires food and lodging establishment employees to receive human trafficking awareness training approved by the Department of Homeland Security.

"As the Crossroads of America, our gas stations and rest areas serve people from all over the country," Bartlett said. "Hanging these posters – which will include warning signs of human trafficking and contact information for the National Human Trafficking Hotline – will hopefully help victims of this atrocious crime get to safety.

"For many victims of human trafficking, a public restroom is the only time they are completely alone. Having these posters in public restrooms will allow those in need of help an opportunity to memorize the hotline number and call for help when they have a chance.

"Educating employees on the signs to look for regarding human trafficking and how to help those they suspect of being trafficked will also go a long way in helping victims and bringing perpetrators to justice.

"We all have to do our part to keep our communities safe, and this bill will help all of us look out for one another. I'd like to thank my co-authors and my fellow representatives for their support on this bill, and I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to get this done for Hoosiers."