Suffolk Reporter

Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, a member of the Assembly Minority Task Force on Human Trafficking, attended a press conference on March 25 in the Assembly Parlor at the Capitol. The event was to release the task force's findings and recommendations, following their engagement with nearly 200 individuals statewide over several months. This interaction included trafficking survivors, law enforcement, prosecutors, social workers, educators, and anti-trafficking advocates.

DeStefano remarked, “Human trafficking is a serious crime and a grave violation of human rights that impacts communities across New York.” He emphasized that firsthand accounts from survivors and professionals were instrumental in shaping the legislative solutions now being proposed. The task force's goal is “to strengthen protections for victims, hold traffickers fully accountable and increase public awareness of this heinous crime.”

The press conference covered key recommendations from the task force. These included expanding supportive housing, improving victim services, increasing penalties for traffickers, and enhancing training and awareness programs for both law enforcement and the public. Several new bills are being introduced as part of efforts to close existing loopholes and improve New York's response to human trafficking.

Advocating for public safety and justice, DeStefano reiterated his commitment to combating human trafficking. He stated, “Preventing human trafficking and ensuring survivors have the support they need are critical to making our communities safer.” By taking decisive legislative action, DeStefano believes New York can send a strong message in opposition to trafficking and work towards protecting victims more effectively.

DeStefano and his colleagues are calling for prompt action on these reforms to provide better protection for vulnerable individuals and enhance law enforcement's capacity to tackle trafficking across the state.