Human Trafficking Bill Poised To Clear Ohio Senate

An Ohio bill that increases penalties for human trafficking and creates a fund to help victims is expected to clear one of its final legislative hurdles. The bill would create a path for human trafficking victims to have their records expunged if they have prostitution or solicitation charges as a result of being trafficked. It also would establish human trafficking as a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison. The Ohio Senate planned to take up the measure Tuesday. The House unanimously voted to pass it last month, and it is expected to agree to the Senate's changes on Wednesday. The governor has made the bill a priority as the General Assembly looks to wrap up its work this week before breaking for the summer.