The bill, titled "An Act Concerning the Prevention of Human Trafficking," introduces several measures aimed at enhancing the oversight of lodging establishments to combat human trafficking. Starting November 15, 2026, the Department of Revenue Services will be required to publicly disclose the names and addresses of hotel, lodging house, and bed and breakfast operators who have remitted state use taxes in the previous month. Additionally, the bill empowers the chief executive officer (CEO) of municipalities, or their designees, to examine and audit records of these lodging facilities to ensure compliance with existing laws related to human trafficking prevention, including record-keeping and employee training requirements.

Furthermore, municipalities are granted the authority to adopt ordinances that allow their CEOs to issue orders prohibiting the operation of non-compliant lodging establishments and to impose civil penalties of up to $5,000 for violations. These ordinances must include provisions for notice and a hearing before penalties are enforced, and individuals affected by such orders or penalties can appeal to the superior court. The bill's effective date is set for October 1, 2026, and it aims to strengthen local efforts in preventing human trafficking through increased accountability and regulatory measures for lodging operators.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 44-4, 44-5, 44-6, 54-234a