This bill mandates that nursing education programs in Florida include a 2-hour course on human trafficking as part of their core curriculum. The course must meet specific criteria outlined in section 464.013(3)(c) and receive approval from the Board of Nursing. Additionally, students are required to complete this course before graduating from their nursing programs. The Board, in collaboration with the Department of Health, will oversee the implementation and enforcement of these new educational requirements, ensuring that the curriculum remains aligned with current laws and best practices by consulting with human trafficking advocacy organizations and local law enforcement agencies.

The new requirements will apply to students who enroll in nursing education programs on or after July 1, 2027. This initiative aims to equip newly licensed nurses with the necessary skills and knowledge to identify and assist victims of human trafficking, addressing a critical public health crisis in Florida. The bill builds on previous legislation that mandated continuing education on human trafficking for licensed nurses, thereby expanding the state's efforts to combat this issue from the outset of nursing education.