Bill > S1944

This bill, titled "Human Trafficking Update," proposes several changes to existing laws to combat human trafficking. It expands the definition of trafficking to include sexual servitude, particularly involving minors, and amends laws related to probation and sentencing to allow for a first-offender prostitution prevention program, which includes education on the harms of commercial sex, health risks, and legal consequences, with eligibility restrictions to prevent repeat offenders or those with serious prior convictions from participating. The bill also mandates the establishment of pilot programs for safe houses to support adult and child victims of human trafficking, requiring comprehensive services like case management, healthcare, and job training. Furthermore, it establishes protocols for data collection and sharing on human trafficking among government agencies, requires district attorneys to designate human trafficking case coordinators, and mandates training for law enforcement, prosecutors, public defenders, judges, and educators on identifying and responding to human trafficking. Finally, the bill calls for public awareness campaigns to educate potential victims and the general public about the risks and consequences of human trafficking, including displaying information in transportation stations and certain businesses, and supports the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline.