In recognition of Human Trafficking Awareness Day and Month, Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas, State Senator Cordell Cleare, and advocates are calling for the passage of legislation they introduced to provide temporary assistance to victims of crime who are noncitizens.

“Human trafficking is a serious and heinous crime and we must do everything we can in New York to address it,” said Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas, chair of the Assembly Subcommittee on Human Trafficking. “On this Human Trafficking Awareness Day, I’m joining with Senator Cleare and advocates to call on our legislature to pass our bill, A8318/S7789, to provide temporary safety net and medical assistance to victims of crime who are noncitizens. If we are truly committed to addressing this human rights violation, then we must connect all survivors to the resources they need to stabilize their lives."

They say individuals who are victims of serious crime, including human trafficking, and are noncitizens are not eligible under current law for public benefits until they receive legal status. The legislation would provide temporary assistance and medical assistance to victims of crimes that are covered by T (human trafficking-related) and U (serious crimes) visas, asylum, special immigrant juvenile status (SIJS), and Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitions.

The United States Department of State estimates between 14,500 and 17,500 victims are trafficked within the United States each year and that an estimated 72% of these victims are immigrants. The advocates have titled the bill the Connect And Recognize Every Survivor (CARES) Act.

“Non-citizens are among the most vulnerable human beings in the entire Empire State and they deserve every single measure of our protection and support,” said Cleare, the prime sponsor. “Sadly, we know that vile and repugnant human traffickers will seek to exploit any situation, which is why a comprehensive approach, including our Connect And Recognize Every Survivor (CARES) Act must be implemented now.”

Governor Kathy Hochul, meanwhile, issued a proclamation Thursday designating January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month in New York State. January 11 is marked annually as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day.

Hochul also announced a month-long social media campaign to educate the public and raise awareness.

“I stand firm in our commitment to eradicate the abhorrent crime of human trafficking,” Hochul said. “By illuminating landmarks in blue tonight, we honor the courage of victims and survivors, sending a powerful message of solidarity and support. Together, we can build a safer, more vigilant society that protects the vulnerable and ensures a brighter future for all.”