Garden State Times

TRENTON, N.J. – Assemblyman Michael Inganamort of Morris County has introduced two bills aimed at combating human trafficking in New Jersey. The lawmaker emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, stating, "They are hiding in plain sight, too scared or literally unable to speak up for fear of retribution against themselves or family members back home."

Inganamort highlighted the need for reform, stressing, "It is time to take a fresh look at our efforts to combat human trafficking. Among other reforms, we must expand the arena in which we are fighting this scourge." The Assemblyman expressed concern over the prevalence of human trafficking, noting that it is a multi-billion-dollar shadow economy that often goes unpunished.

The proposed legislation includes measures to hold accountable those who financially benefit from trafficking. Inganamort emphasized the importance of imposing stricter punishments, stating, "There are few prosecutions for anyone, and those who buy and sell people like property know it. If we’re serious about combating this travesty, that needs to change."

In response to the growing impact of digital platforms on human trafficking, Inganamort introduced the "Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Prevention Act," which aims to restrict access to obscene material and escort sites. He underscored the necessity of proactive measures in the digital age, saying, “The reality that we live in a digital world, and that there are evil people who exploit others and target women and children, can be terrifying.”

Both bills introduced by Assemblyman Inganamort have been referred to the Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee for further consideration.