The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 16-6-26, which allows hotels and public lodging establishments to provide annual human trafficking awareness training to their employees. This training is aimed at those who perform housekeeping duties or work at the front desk, and it must include definitions of human trafficking, guidance on identifying potential victims, and instructions on how to report suspected cases. Additionally, by January 1, 2026, establishments are required to implement a reporting procedure for suspected human trafficking and to display a public awareness sign in multiple languages, including English and Spanish, that provides information on how to seek help.

The bill clarifies that it does not create a private cause of action for individuals and does not limit existing remedies available to survivors of human trafficking. Furthermore, it authorizes the Bureau for Public Health to propose rules necessary for the implementation of these provisions, including the ability to promulgate emergency rules as needed.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-6-26
Committee Substitute: 16-6-26