NH commission's report on human trafficking."...human trafficking is a byproduct of conflict. It is a threat to national security, public health, and democracy." Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, June 14, 2010
The trafficking of humans for sex or labor is nothing less than modern day slavery. One case of labor trafficking (in Litchfield) was already successfully prosecuted in New Hampshire by federal courts. Since even the feds don't have the resources to be on top of all situations, several states have taken the baton and run with passing state laws that make human trafficking a Class B felony. The crime of human trafficking does not necessarily involve undocumented people or crossing national or state borders. Teen runaways, for example, are targets for these types of crimes.
Suzanne served as chair of the Statewide Interagency Commission on Human Trafficking, and out of the commission's work came the bill that she, with a group of bi-partisan co-sponsors, brought to the legislature making human trafficking a felony in New Hampshire. Advocating for the bill and having open discussion about trafficking educated the legislature about the crime, the extent of the problem, and that our state is not immune. The legislation, passed in 2009, sends a strong message to traffickers: New Hampshire is not a safe haven for you. You're not welcome here.
The diverse makeup of the commission led to outreach and education among first responders, who are being taught in seminars how to even recognize and talk with a trafficked victim.
You can read the commission's final report in pdf here and the part of our statute that defines trafficking in humans. Or, to learn more about human trafficking, go to the Polaris Project's website or the U.S. Secretary of State's website.