Human trafficking is not just a global or national problem — it’s a crisis happening right here in our own backyards. In the Lake to River region and across Ohio, traffickers are exploiting vulnerable individuals, robbing them of their freedom and dignity. These crimes are not just hidden in the shadows, but they are affecting our neighborhoods, our schools and our families.

Ohio is a human trafficking hotspot due to our state’s unique position and infrastructure, with the nation’s highest number of truck stops, an extensive highway system and proximity to the Canadian border. In 2024, Ohio ranked tenth in the nation for the number of cases reported to the Human Trafficking Hotline, with over 670 contacts, and in 2023, Ohio received an overall grade of “F” on its Report Card on Child and Youth Sex Trafficking from Shared Hope International.

As the state representative for the 64th House District, I’ve spoken with local law enforcement, survivor advocacy groups and individuals impacted by trafficking. One thing is clear: Ohio must do more to prevent trafficking, protect survivors and punish perpetrators. That’s why I introduced House Bill 47, the Human Trafficking Prevention Act, comprehensive legislation aimed at closing the gaps in our current anti-trafficking laws and giving communities the tools they need to fight back.

The Lake to River region has seen a disturbing uptick in trafficking cases in recent years. In early 2025, the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force arrested more than a dozen men seeking to buy sex in northeast Ohio. In May of the same year, an indictment was filed in Trumbull County against eight people engaging in human trafficking activities at massage parlors. Young people — often lured online or coerced through addiction — are especially at risk. And while law enforcement has made incredible efforts to combat this crisis, we need to do more to ensure that traffickers are held accountable for their crimes and are not able to evade responsibility through legal loopholes.

HB 47 addresses this issue head-on. The bill strengthens penalties for kidnapping, abduction, and human trafficking, particularly when those actions target minors and those with developmental disabilities. It also modifies the offense of kidnapping to better reflect the realities we’re seeing in our communities.

This is not a partisan issue — it’s a human issue. The fight against human trafficking demands coordinated action from all levels of government, law enforcement, community groups and ordinary citizens. HB 47 is the result of months of collaboration and listening — to survivors, advocates, and those on the front lines of this fight. It reflects our shared commitment to saying, unequivocally: Not in our state.

I’m proud to champion HB 47, and I am grateful to my colleagues in the General Assembly for their support of this critical legislation. Together, we are sending a clear message: Ohio stands with survivors, and traffickers will be held accountable. This legislation is currently being considered by the Ohio Senate. Please contact your state senator to voice your support and help keep our communities safe.

We all have a role to play in building safer communities. If you suspect human trafficking activity, please report it to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888 or to the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force at 330-480-4940.

State Rep. NIck Santucci, R-Niles, represents Ohio’s 65th District in Trumbull County. He can be reached at rep64@ohiohouse.gov.