McNamara proposes legislation to help fight human trafficking

A Toledo city councilman wants to assist in the fight against human trafficking by mandating that all sexually-oriented businesses in the city display a poster listing a hot line number that victims of the trade can call.

Councilman Joe McNamara announced today he will ask his colleagues to support him in passing the legislation that strengthens a provision in a state bill on human trafficking expected to soon become law. Under the Ohio bill, adult entertainment businesses are encouraged but not mandated to display the posters. If the Toledo ordinance passes, establishments could face a $1,000-a-day fine and other penalties if they fail to comply, Mr. McNamara said.

The posters will list a number for the National Human Trafficking Resource Center which victims can call to receive help. People who suspect human trafficking is taking place can also call the number to make a report.

“Human trafficking is obviously a very serious problem,” Mr. McNamara said. “Our hope is this ordinance will create awareness to the victims of human trafficking that there are services out there available for you.”

Toledo has the dubious distinction of being a national leader in the recruitment of minors for the sex trade.

The hot line number is 1-888-373-7888.