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7/13/2021
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New law to require hotels to post notices to prevent human trafficking
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STATE HOUSE — The General Assembly has approved and the governor has signed into law legislation introduced by Rep. Grace Diaz (D-Dist. 11, Providence) and Sen. Ana B. Quezada (D-Dist. 2, Providence) that will require the posting of notices in hotels with a number to call when witnessing signs of human trafficking.
The Human Trafficking Prevention Notice Act (2021-H 5270A, 2021-S 0408A) will require hotels to post human trafficking awareness signs on their premises as of Jan. 1.
“Traffickers especially target vulnerable children who suffer from abuse,” said Representative Diaz. “It’s difficult to find statistics, but some estimate between 100,000 and 2 million children are trafficked in this country. This law will not only give victims an extra layer of protection by promoting awareness among hotel employees, it will also encourage greater awareness of the dangers of trafficking in the community.”
Under the new law, the notices must provide information regarding the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline. The number is operated by a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization that is anonymous and confidential. The hotline is accessible in 170 languages and is able to provide help, referral to services, training and general information.
“As we learn more about human trafficking and how to recognize it, it’s important that we develop policies to combat it and help the victims,” said Senator Quezada. “While every state has laws to prosecute human trafficking, too often the public is unaware that trafficking crimes can occur close to home, and that businesses in their neighborhood may be affected. This law is a step toward educating the public on trafficking issues.”
For more information, contact:
Daniel Trafford, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-1922
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