For Immediate Release
Richmond, VA (February 9, 2024) — The Virginia Coalition Against Human Trafficking (VCAHT) today
expressed its strong endorsement of the federal Trafficking Survivors Relief Act, a pivotal piece of
legislation introduced by Representatives Russell Fry, Ted Lieu, Ann Wagner, and Robert Garcia.
Director Patrick McKenna of the VCAHT, commended the legislators for championing this vital
cause, highlighting the legislation’s significance in addressing the injustices faced by survivors of
human trafficking.
“The Trafficking Survivors Relief Act is a landmark in our ongoing battle against human trafficking,
providing survivors with the much-needed opportunity for vacatur and expungement of convictions
for non-violent crimes committed under the duress of trafficking,” McKenna stated. “This is not only
a step forward in supporting survivors but also in strengthening the integrity of our justice system
and society at large.”
Vacatur and expungement offer a legal remedy that recognizes the unique circumstances of
trafficking survivors, allowing them to clear their records of convictions that are direct results of
their victimization. “This process is crucial for survivors’ rehabilitation and reintegration, removing
barriers to employment, housing, and education, and acknowledging their dignity and resilience,”
McKenna explained.
In light of the federal bill’s introduction, VCAHT calls upon Virginia’s state legislators to enact more
comprehensive vacatur and expungement legislation. “We have a moral and civic duty to support
survivors in our Commonwealth. It’s time for Virginia to follow the federal government’s lead and
introduce measures that provide tangible support to survivors, helping them to reclaim and rebuild
their lives,” McKenna concluded.
About VCAHT
The Virginia Coalition Against Human Trafficking is committed to eradicating human trafficking
through advocacy, education, and partnership. VCAHT aims to ensure survivors have access to
necessary resources and support for a hopeful future.
Contact:
Bill Woolf, bwoolf@TWGStrategy.com, 571-641-7779
For more information about VCAHT’s efforts and how to get involved, please visit http://www.VCAHT.org.