Pennsylvania Takes Steps to Combat Human Trafficking Through Hospitality Industry Training
- Dawn's Place
- Oct 23
- 2 min read
When most people think about human trafficking, they imagine dramatic kidnappings or isolated warehouses—not vacation destinations or the hotel down the street where your family stays during the holidays.
The reality, however, is far different. Hotels, motels, and short-term rentals have become prime locations where trafficking hides in plain sight, shielded by the anonymity of transient guests and cash transactions. In 2024, the National Human Trafficking Hotline documented 165 cases of sex trafficking in PA (1) involving hundreds of victims, many of which can be tied directly to hotels and lodging.
Now, Pennsylvania is taking action with House Bill 1286, legislation that would mandate human trafficking awareness training for all employees in the hospitality industry, transforming frontline workers into equipped allies in the fight against exploitation.
What HB 1286 Requires
The measure, sponsored by PA State Rep Regina Young, would require all employees at hotels, motels, short-term rental operations, and third-party contractors must complete state-approved human trafficking awareness training within 90 days of hiring. Training would need to be renewed every two years, and employers would be required to maintain records for review by law enforcement.
The curriculum would cover legal definitions of trafficking, identifying vulnerable individuals, proper reporting procedures, and distinguishing between sex trafficking and labor trafficking. It’s geared to equip frontline workers with practical tools to recognize warning signs and take appropriate action.
Why This Legislation Matters Now
Pennsylvania's geographic position makes it particularly vulnerable to trafficking cases due to its extensive interstate highway system(2), which creates easy access for traffickers who can then exploit the anonymity and transient nature of lodging establishments. These venues, where cash transactions are common and movement is constant, have become frequently cited locations in trafficking operations. (3)
Advocacy for Change
Former Dawn’s Place Board Member, Shea Rhodes, Director and Co-Founder of The Institute to Address Commercial Sexual Exploitation at Villanova Law School, has been a leading voice advocating for this legislation. Rhodes recently stated during hearings for House Bill 1286 that the “legislation is long overdue”. (4)
"Passing this much-needed legislation into law would be common-sense law reform. Our commonwealth needs to re-establish its position as a leading jurisdiction in the fight against human trafficking. Hotels and the hospitality industry must be an ally in the fight against all forms of human trafficking and exploitation."
—Shea Rhodes
A Shift Toward Victim-Centered Approaches
The legislation reflects Pennsylvania's broader shift toward treating those coerced into providing sex or labor as victims rather than criminals. Prosecutors and courts now work with service providers to connect survivors with counseling, housing, medical care, and legal support. Trauma-informed interviews and confidential advocacy have become essential tools for building cases while helping survivors rebuild their lives. (5)
What Can You Do
House Bill 1286 represents more than a training mandate—it signals Pennsylvania's commitment to transforming hospitality staff into equipped defenders against exploitation. By empowering thousands of frontline workers with knowledge and reporting tools, the Commonwealth is creating a network of allies dedicated to protecting the most vulnerable.
To show your support of this important state legislation, contact your representatives to voice your view.