Act 197 of 2012 mandated the posting of a conspicuous notification in various establishments, advising persons who may be victims of human trafficking, where they can get help and a toll-free telephone number to contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline. Establishments” include: - Drinking establishments that have liquor licenses, and have been found to be a drug related or common nuisance;
- Personal service establishment (Massage parlors, spas or a similar enterprises);
- Adult entertainment enterprises;
- Hotels or motels that have been found to be a drug-related or common nuisance;
- Airports, train stations and bus stations;
- Welcome centers and rest areas operated by PennDOT or the Turnpike
Though this law was a good step toward notifying and assisting those who are the victims of human trafficking, other states that have passed similar laws do not have such a restrictive definition of “establishment”. I plan to introduce a bill to remove the limitation on “drinking establishments” and “hotels and motels” so that it will include all, not just those that have been found to be nuisances. My bill will also expand the kinds of places where a notice must be posted to include: - a retail establishment, at which gasoline or diesel fuel are sold.
- emergency departments within hospitals.
- urgent care centers.
- locations at which farm labor contractors and day haulers work, if such an establishment is available at those locations, in which notices can be posted.
- privately operated job recruitment centers.
- a convenience store or “quick stop” retail establishment.
Please join me in this effort to protect victims of human trafficking by co-sponsoring this legislation. |