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, which will include training on recognizing signs of trafficking and implementing a discreet signaling system for victims seeking help in emergency departments. 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 representatives from various health and welfare committees, human trafficking prevention offices, and nursing associations, among others. The task force is set to operate until January 1, 2027, at which point its provisions will terminate. The amendments to R.S. 40:1216.1(E)(2) include the requirement for districts to adopt the new human trafficking protocol alongside existing sexual assault response team protocols.

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