The Suffolk County Legislature passed a measure introduced by Chad Lennon’s (C-Rocky Point) that would institute increased record keeping requirements, combined with the restriction of hourly rate options, that would significantly impair human trafficking.
“Together, we as a county are working to face the issue of human trafficking head on,” Lennon said. “I will lead the charge from the legislature to ensure the safety and protection of our most vulnerable. This is the first step — there will be more action to come from the legislature to fight back against anyone who seeks to traffic anyone in our county.”
In declaring its intent, the Legislature found that hotels and motels can play a significant role in curtailing human trafficking, as they are often utilized by traffickers due to real or perceived anonymity attributed to a lack of certain record keeping, with respect to vital information, including, but not limited to, photo IDs and security footage. Further, the Legislature determined that digital record keeping of required information is a reasonable expectation, as it can be readily backed up, quickly located and reproduced, thus potentially serving as a critical crime-fighting aid, as well as a deterrent.
Among its provisions, the legislation:
- specifies information to be kept in hotel and motel guest registers
- requires that such information be kept for certain extended time periods
- requires that records be made available for authorized law enforcement, rescue, and emergency personnel, and relevant municipal officials
- prohibits hourly rate options of less than six hours in duration for rooms with sleeping accommodations
- requires hotel operators to provide human trafficking recognition training in accordance with Section 205 of the New York General Business Law to core employees
Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey (R-Lindenhurst) praised Lennon’s determination and the bipartisan efforts of the Legislature on getting the resolution passed.
“We are proud to stand with Legislator Lennon to pass this important measure to help fight human trafficking and to protect the most vulnerable potential victims, especially women and children, said McCaffrey. “Trafficking is a persistent and pernicious crime that extends unfortunately to all demographics and communities. And it must be stopped.”
County Executive Ed Romaine has declared his intention to sign the measure into law.
“Suffolk County will stay vigilant and do all we can to prevent and, if needed, prosecute the heinous crime of human trafficking,” Romaine said. “Legislator Lennon’s bill an important step in preventing anonymity and potential havens for traffickers. Too many are being harmed by some very bad people.”