NJ Officials Draw Attention to Human Trafficking

New Jersey officials are marking “Human Trafficking Awareness Day” during a rally and other events at the Statehouse.

Attorney General Jeffrey Chiesa is leading one of the programs Friday in Trenton. His office this past summer created a new unit to focus on the problem.

Human trafficking can involve anyone from an American forced into prostitution to an immigrant housekeeper compelled to work for less than minimum wage.

In the state Legislature, a pending bill would vacate the criminal convictions of people found to have engaged in illegal activity because they were victims of trafficking.  Experts say trafficking survivors, such as those forced into the sex trade, cannot move on with their lives if they're burdened with a criminal record.

At least seven states, including New York, have passed such laws.