LOS ANGELES >> Los Angeles City Councilwoman Nury Martinez announced an effort Tuesday to increase enforcement of a 2013 state law mandating certain businesses post anti-human-trafficking posters near their entrance.
“We must send a message to these sleazy businesses that if you are contributing to the problem then you have a moral obligation to be part of the solution as well,” Martinez said.
Martinez introduced a motion that seeks a city attorney report within 90 days on ways Los Angeles can increase compliance with SB 1193, which requires businesses like strip clubs, bars, motels, truck stops and private emergency rooms to display a poster on how human trafficking victims can seek help, including a hotline number.
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According to Martinez, the National Council of Jewish Women, Los Angeles and the Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking conducted a study that shows few businesses in the city and county are complying with the law.
Martinez said there is ample evidence that human trafficking is a serious problem in Los Angeles and that two women and eight girls have been rescued by the city over the last year who were victims of it.
“Human trafficking is slavery,” said Hillary Selvin, executive director of NCJW/LA. “There are over 20 million victims. It is imperative upon all of us to do whatever we can to stem the tide and stop the worldwide business of human trafficking. This motion is just one step is helping those that are being trafficked. SB 1193 must be enforced.”
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Martinez said some ways to increase enforcement of the law could be to train fire and police officials to check for compliance when visiting a business for another purpose. Businesses found to be out of compliance can receive a $500 fine for a first offense and a $1,000 fine for a second offense.
County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas appeared with Martinez Tuesday at a news conference at City Hall and said he would be looking for ways to increase county enforcement of the law as well.
“Let this not fall off our radar. It is too important. I declare today that our children are not for sale and we must do all that we can to renew our efforts,” Ridley-Thomas said.
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