H.B. No. 742 aims to enhance human trafficking prevention efforts in Texas by mandating training for first responders and requiring health care facilities to disclose information related to human trafficking. The bill introduces Chapter 763 to the Health and Safety Code, which outlines the definitions of key terms, such as "first responder" and "human trafficking," and establishes a requirement for first responders to complete a training course approved by the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission. Additionally, the bill mandates that emergency departments in hospitals and freestanding emergency medical care facilities display signs with specific information about human trafficking, including training requirements and protections for employees who report suspected trafficking incidents.
The legislation also includes provisions that prohibit discrimination and retaliation against hospital and facility employees who report suspected acts of human trafficking. The signs must be prominently displayed in multiple languages and include contact information for reporting suspicious activities. The executive commissioner is tasked with approving and posting a list of training courses on the commission's website, and the attorney general is responsible for designing the required signage. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 241.011, Subchapter A, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 245.025 (Health and Safety Code 241, Subchapter A, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 245)
House Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 241.011, Subchapter A, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 245.025 (Health and Safety Code 241, Subchapter A, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 245)
Engrossed: Health and Safety Code 241.011, Subchapter A, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 245.025 (Health and Safety Code 241, Subchapter A, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 245)
Senate Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 241.011, Subchapter A, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 245.025 (Health and Safety Code 241, Subchapter A, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 245)
Enrolled: Health and Safety Code 241.011, Subchapter A, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 245.025 (Health and Safety Code 241, Subchapter A, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 245)