Urge Gov. Cuomo to sign a new law protecting human trafficking victims
The New York State Assembly has passed an important amendment to existing public health law (NYS Assembly Bill A8650B) that would provide training for physicians, nurses, social workers, and other clinical care and security personnel to identify, assess, and provide appropriate treatment or referral of people suspected of being human trafficking victims. Currently, these professionals encounter victims, but may not have been trained to recognize the red flags or make the appropriate referrals to help keep victims safe. The new amendment also provides additional protection for youth, requiring notification to social services where the person is under the age of 18 — helping to make sure that young victims receive appropriate help.
This amendment has been forwarded to Gov. Andrew Cuomo for his signature. If signed, this legislation would require that every general hospital, public health center, diagnostic center, treatment center, or outpatient department provide identification, assessment, and appropriate treatment or referral of persons suspected as trafficking victims.
A SAMPLE PHONE MESSAGE FOR THE GOVERNOR:
1-518-474-8390 | Office hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm
“Hi, my name is [YOUR NAME], and I’m calling from [YOUR TOWN].
I’m contacting Gov. Cuomo to ask him to sign the NYS Assembly Bill A8650B that will protect our children from trafficking and exploitation.
These important steps will strengthen our ability to train and equip healthcare professionals while at the same time providing needed services to their victims. Would you please pass my message on to Gov. Cuomo?
Thank you!”
A Sample Email for the Governor:
I am writing to urge Gov. Cuomo to protect our children from trafficking and exploitation by signing NYS Assembly Bill A8650B. This bill will strengthen our ability to train and equip healthcare professionals and provide needed services to victims of human trafficking. Please pass my message on to Gov. Cuomo. Thank you.
