Human trafficking recognition training bill heads to Pa. Senate

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by Emily Previti, Pennsylvania Capital-Star
December 17, 2025

State House lawmakers have unanimously passed a bill that would require lodging operators to ensure workers undergo training meant to improve recognizing and reporting human trafficking. 

The vote comes just before the start of 2026, when several major events – including the FIFA World Cup, America250 and the NFL draft – promise to draw “record-breaking numbers of visitors” to the state, noted Zakary Pyzik, senior director of public affairs for the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association. 

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Bill sponsor Rep. Regina Young’s district includes the Philadelphia International Airport, in addition to an adjacent section of Delaware County. 

“This is bigger than 2026, but the time really is now,” said Young, a Democrat who introduced a similar proposal during the last legislative session as well. 

Young and Pyzik spoke during a press conference Wednesday along with state Rep. Tarik Khan (D-Philadelphia) and Philadelphia City Councilwoman Nina Amad before the House took up the measure for third and final consideration. It now goes to the Senate, which reconvenes on Jan. 6. 

The bill calls for hospitality personnel to undergo training biannually thorough programs – including free, online options – approved by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency in consultation with statewide organizations representing the hospitality, travel and tourism industries. Motels, hotels and short-term rental operators would have to keep records certifying the training and produce them upon request by the state Department of Labor & Industry or local licensing or law enforcement authorities. 

Third-party platforms such as Airbnb wouldn’t need to maintain training certifications from users. The onus would be on operators using the sites to advertise and facilitate reservations. However, the booking platform would have to keep a record of users’ training confirmations (e.g., emails). 

If HB1286 becomes law, workers and employers can initially present proof of training completed within the prior year to meet its requirements.

Violators would face a fine of $100 for a first offense, $250 for a second within 90 days and $500 daily for third and subsequent infractions. Ultimately, they could lose their operating license. At least half the restitution collected will go toward PCCD grants, according to the proposal.

At least 11 states – New Jersey, Florida and North Carolina among them – already have comparable rules in place, according to a report from PACT (Protect All Children from Trafficking). Others weighing them include Massachusetts, where versions of the legislation under consideration date back to 2019.

Pennsylvania Capital-Star is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Pennsylvania Capital-Star maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Tim Lambert for questions: info@penncapital-star.com.

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