Victims of human trafficking are often criminalized for actions they were forced to take by their traffickers. Even after escaping exploitation, survivors are left with arrest records, convictions, fines, and restitution obligations that create lasting barriers to safety, employment, and independence.

HB 1298/SB 748 gives trafficking survivors a meaningful path to relief through vacatur—survivors who were arrested, charged, or convicted of qualifying offenses connected to their victimization can petition the court to clear those records and eliminate the ongoing consequences of exploitation.

By recognizing the realities of human trafficking and removing unjust criminal records, this legislation promotes survivor stability, strengthens workforce participation, and ensures Virginia’s justice system reflects fairness, accountability, and compassion.