Human Trafficking Bill Goes To Henry

Legislation to crack down on criminals who kidnap and sell human beings has gained final legislative approval and now awaits the governor's signature to become law.

House Bill 1021, by Rep. Marian Cooksey, creates new penalties for anyone convicted of human trafficking "for forced labor or forced sexual exploitation" who relies on the "use of force, fraud or coercion" to trap victims.

"Human trafficking is the slave trade of the 21st Century," said Cooksey, R-Edmond. "Anyone who holds another human being in slavery for prostitution or forced labor or any other purpose must pay a high price for their actions."

Under the bill, those convicted of human trafficking will face at least five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000 for each conviction.

Anyone convicted of human trafficking involving victims younger than age 14 will face at least 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to$20,000.

Those convicted of the crime could also be ordered to pay restitution to their victims and the bill allows law enforcement officials to seize trafficker's property - including aircraft, vehicles and money - to help offset the state expenses of prosecution.

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