This bill amends existing legislation regarding the display of public awareness signs related to human trafficking. Specifically, it broadens the language requirements for these signs to include not only English and Spanish but also Chinese and Korean. The signs must contain information about the national, 24-hour toll-free hotline for human trafficking and must be displayed in various establishments, including strip clubs, massage therapy businesses, bars, airports, and public transportation facilities, among others.
The bill also establishes penalties for non-compliance, with a civil penalty of $300 for a first offense and $1,000 for subsequent offenses. This legislative change is in response to recommendations from a report by the Commission of Investigation, which highlighted 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