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Schuette Convenes Task Force On Human Trafficking

WKAR File Photo

A commission will spend six months studying the problem of human trafficking and child prostitution in Michigan.

The task force will make recommendations on how to fight human trafficking – including new state laws.

The Michigan Public Radio Network’s Rick Pluta reports.

Human trafficking can include forced prostitution, involuntary servitude, and forced labor. Human trafficking activity increases during big events like the Detroit auto show and periods where low-wage employers are looking for labor. 

Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette convened the task force.

   “This modern-day form of bondage is one of the world’s fastest-growing crimes,”  he says.

Schuette says one of the issues that needs to be addressed is how little data there is on the scope of human trafficking in Michigan. Advocates have long sought a state law that protects victims of human trafficking from being charged with prostitution or some other crime if they seek help.

Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
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