This bill amends existing legislation regarding the display of public awareness signs related to human trafficking. It specifically broadens the language requirements for these signs to include not only English and Spanish but also Chinese and Korean. The signs must contain the national, 24-hour toll-free hotline information for human trafficking and must be displayed in various establishments, including strip clubs, massage therapy businesses, bars, airports, and public transportation facilities, among others.

Additionally, the bill establishes a civil penalty for businesses that fail to comply with the signage requirements, with fines set at $300 for a first offense and $1,000 for subsequent offenses. This legislation is informed by recommendations from a report by the State Commission of Investigation, which highlights the need for increased awareness and accessibility of information regarding human trafficking in New Jersey. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:17B-237.1