The bill aims to enhance human trafficking awareness training requirements for employees of transient accommodations, such as hotels and motels, in Washington State. It mandates that all employees receive annual training on human trafficking by February 1, 2025, with new employees trained within 90 days of their start date. The training must cover definitions of human trafficking, identification of potential victims, appropriate responses to suspected trafficking, and provide contact information for relevant agencies. Additionally, operators of transient accommodations are required to post human trafficking awareness signage and implement procedures for reporting suspected trafficking incidents.

To ensure compliance, the bill amends existing licensing requirements for transient accommodations. Specifically, it stipulates that the Department of Licensing cannot renew or issue a license without written certification from the applicant confirming that they have met the new training, signage, and reporting procedure requirements. The bill also updates the timeline for license applications and renewals, changing the notice period from sixty days to 60 days and the invalidation period from thirty-fifth day to 35th day after expiration. These measures are intended to create a safer environment in accommodations and combat human trafficking effectively.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70.62.260
Substitute Bill: 70.62.260