Bill > HB538

This bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to expand educational requirements for higher education institutions and private licensed schools regarding violence prevention, specifically adding human trafficking to existing programs on sexual, dating, domestic violence, and stalking. The bill requires these institutions to establish comprehensive education programs that now must include instruction on human trafficking, starting in the 2027-2028 school year. The expanded curriculum will cover current federal and state human trafficking laws, trafficking statistics, methods traffickers use to recruit victims (including through social media), risk factors that make individuals vulnerable to trafficking, and how to identify and assist potential trafficking victims. Institutions must develop these programs in consultation with local rape crisis centers, domestic violence programs, and potentially human trafficking prevention organizations. The education programs must provide detailed information on consent, victim support, reporting mechanisms, medical treatment, legal resources, and confidentiality. Additionally, schools must conduct follow-up programs and make information about rights, accommodations, and protective measures readily available to students and employees. The new requirements aim to increase awareness and prevention of human trafficking alongside existing violence prevention efforts, with the legislation taking effect 60 days after passage.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=538