West Hudson Valley News

Assemblyman Brian Maher (R,C-Walden) and Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C-Ballston) will co-chair a New York State Assembly Minority Task Force on Human Trafficking and Exploitation. The task force will commence on July 30th in Suffolk County, coinciding with "World Day Against Trafficking in Persons," a day recognized by the United Nations to raise awareness about human trafficking.

Maher and Walsh will be joined at the kickoff by Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio (R,C-Riverhead) and Assemblyman Ed Flood (R,C-Port Jefferson). More than two dozen stakeholders and experts are expected to discuss ways to strengthen support for survivors, improve tools and coordination for law enforcement, create educational programs, and examine the impacts of the migrant crisis on human trafficking.

"Nearly one year ago I attended a public hearing where I listened to survivors of human trafficking, nonprofits, and law enforcement officials testify to the harsh reality that within our own communities here in New York we have modern-day slavery taking place," said Maher. "Thanks to Minority Leader Will Barclay and our team in the Minority Assembly, we will be putting on a full court press over the next several months to educate ourselves on this horrific issue and put together recommendations that will make a meaningful difference."

Kellyann Kostyall, Executive Director of Fearless, added: "Human Trafficking is an abuse of human rights happening in communities throughout New York. Addressing a multi-faceted issue requires a coordinated community response to ensure victims are supported and have access to services. Working together we can identify human trafficking in our communities and work to develop initiatives that focus on reducing the market demand. I look forward to partnering with Assemblyman Maher, Assemblywoman Walsh."

Maher further emphasized: "The Assembly Minority Task Force on Human Trafficking has been formed to investigate the very troubling abuse of children and adults for sexual abuse, labor trafficking, and exploitation. We know this issue is prevalent in our communities and the establishment of this task force is the next step in our conference making a conscious effort to address these longstanding injustices."

Despite various policies enacted over recent years, New York still has room for improvement in its efforts to prevent human trafficking and support those affected. Through roundtable discussions, workshops, and hearings held over the summer and early fall, the task force aims to explore different aspects of the problem.

The task force plans to gather input from professionals providing support services, law enforcement officials, survivors, and community leaders. At the conclusion of these forums, it will compile testimony into a summary report with targeted solutions aimed at curbing human trafficking and supporting survivors.

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