This bill amends existing law to enhance the response to human trafficking victims in Louisiana by establishing the Human Trafficking in Emergency Departments Task Force. The task force is tasked with drafting a uniform protocol for identifying and responding to human trafficking cases in emergency departments, which will include information on recognizing signs of trafficking and a discreet signaling process for victims seeking help. The bill also mandates that each district incorporate this protocol into their annual sexual assault response plans.

Additionally, the bill outlines the composition of the task force, which includes various stakeholders such as representatives from health and welfare committees, human trafficking prevention offices, and nursing associations. The task force will be chaired by the chair of the House Committee on Health and Welfare or their designee, and it is set to operate until January 1, 2027. The amendments to R.S. 40:1216.1(E)(2) include the requirement for districts to integrate the new human trafficking protocol into their response plans, thereby enhancing the overall framework for addressing human trafficking in emergency medical settings.

Statutes affected:
HB359 Original: 28:53(A)
HB359 Enrolled: 40:1(E)(2)
HB359 Act 267: 40:1(E)(2)