AG Nessel Applauds Senate Passage of Legislation to Combat Human Trafficking

LANSING – Today, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is applauding the Michigan Senate for unanimously passing Senate Bills 520, 521, and 705, a legislative package that aims to combat human trafficking. Attorney General Nessel announced the bills during a press conference last year with state Senator John Damoose (R-Harbor Springs) and state Representative Kelly Breen (D-Novi), who introduced complementary legislation in the Michigan House of Representatives.

“Human trafficking is pervasive, and one of the most important ways we can combat it is to enact meaningful legislation,” Nessel said. “I applaud the Senate for passing these reforms, and it is my hope they soon become law.” 

In 2024, Michigan ranked among the top states for trafficking reports. The National Human Trafficking Hotline received 764 reports involving Michigan, identifying 340 cases and 585 victims—nearly 100 more victims than in 2023. Michigan ranked behind only California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, and Texas. Because these cases are widely underreported, the number of victims is likely much higher. The legislative package would increase fines and sentencing guidelines for violations involving commercial sex and human trafficking and increase penalties for trafficking offenses.

Attorney General Nessel is leading the fight against human trafficking in Michigan by prosecuting criminal cases under state laws banning human trafficking and working with law enforcement task forces through the Human Trafficking Unit to help put an end to trafficking in the state. Attorneys from the Department also conduct trainings for law enforcement and prosecutors and work with community members and advocates to raise awareness of this crime. Last week, the Department also provided written testimony (PDF) to the Michigan House Judiciary Committee in support of House Bills 5009-5013, which also aim to combat human trafficking. 

Information on Attorney General Nessel’s human trafficking initiative can be found on the Attorney General’s website. Victims of human trafficking or those who have identified someone they think may need help can contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 888-373-7888 or text 233733. This is a national, toll-free hotline that is available to answer calls, texts, and chats from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year. All calls are confidential. People who live in the State of Michigan who suspect human trafficking can also call 855-MICH-TIP for assistance.