HB 1960: AG; DLE; Human Trafficking Awareness; Transient Accommodations Sector; Training; Signage; Reporting; Penalties; Rules
- Session Year: 2025-2026
- House: House
- Latest Version Date: 2026-05-01
Current Status:
Passed
(2026-07-07: Act 191, on 07/07/2026 (Gov. Msg. No. 1293).)
Introduced
In Committee
First Chamber
In Committee
Second Chamber
Final Decking
Enacted
Requires the Department of the Attorney General to develop a Human Trafficking Awareness Training Program, or approve externally developed programs, to educate and train workers in the transient accommodations sector. Requires transient accommodations employers or transient accommodations third-party contractors to periodically provide the human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers, keep records of the training, post signage, and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that includes procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking. Establishes penalties. Requires the Department of Law Enforcement to adopt rules. (CD1)
Requires the Department of the Attorney General to develop a Human Trafficking Awareness Training Program to educate and train workers in the transient accommodations sector. Requires transient accommodations employers or transient accommodations third-party contractors to periodically provide the human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers, keep records of the training, post signage, and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that includes procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking. Establishes penalties. Requires the Department of Law Enforcement to adopt rules. Effective 3/22/2075. (SD1)
Requires the Department of the Attorney General to develop a Human Trafficking Awareness Training Program to educate and train workers in the transient accommodations sector. Requires transient accommodations employers or transient accommodations third-party contractors to periodically provide the human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers, keep records of the training, post signage, and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that includes procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking. Establishes penalties. Requires the Department of Law Enforcement to adopt rules. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
Requires the Department of the Attorney General to develop a Human Trafficking Awareness Training Program to educate and train workers in the transient accommodations sector. Requires transient accommodations employers or transient accommodations third-party contractors to periodically provide the human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers, keep records of the training, post signage, and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that includes procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking. Establishes penalties. Requires the Department of Law Enforcement to adopt rules. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
Requires the Department of the Attorney General to develop a Human Trafficking Awareness Training Program to educate and train workers in the transient accommodations sector. Requires transient accommodations employers to periodically provide the human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers; keep records of the training; post signage; and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that includes procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking. Establishes penalties. Requires the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to adopt rules.
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HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1960 |
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THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
H.D. 2 |
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STATE OF HAWAII |
S.D. 1 |
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C.D. 1 |
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A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO HUMAN TRAFFICKING.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. Chapter 28, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part XIII to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§28- Human trafficking awareness training program; transient accommodations sector. (a) No later than July 1, 2027, the department of the attorney general shall develop a human trafficking awareness training program for the purpose of educating and training workers in the transient accommodations sector. The training program shall include but not be limited to the following components:
(1) Definitions of human trafficking and the commercial exploitation of children;
(2) Explanation of the differences between labor trafficking and sex trafficking, as they relate to the transient accommodations sector;
(3) Guidance on indicators of human trafficking, including the identification of:
(A) Individuals who may be vulnerable to or are victims of human trafficking; and
(B) Individuals who may be engaged in human trafficking activity;
(4) Guidance on the appropriate response and reporting procedures for transient accommodations workers when indicators of human trafficking are observed; and
(5) Contact information for:
(A) The National Human Trafficking Hotline toll‑free number and text line; and
(B) Appropriate local law enforcement agencies.
(b) A transient accommodations employer or transient accommodations third-party contractor may submit a human trafficking awareness training program developed by a party other than the department of the attorney general for approval by the department as an alternative to the training program developed pursuant to subsection (a). The department of the attorney general shall not approve any externally developed training program unless it complies with all the requirements of subsection (a). The department of the attorney general shall review the externally developed training program and either approve or disapprove its use within sixty days of written receipt of the externally developed training program.
(c) For the purposes of this section:
"Transient accommodations" has the same meaning as in section 237D‑1.
"Transient accommodations employer" has the same meaning as in section 353C- .
"Transient accommodations third-party contractor" has the same meaning as in section 353C- ."
SECTION 2. Chapter 353C, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§353C- Human trafficking awareness; transient accommodations sector; training; records; signage; reporting; penalties. (a) No later than December 1, 2027, every transient accommodations employer or transient accommodations third-party contractor shall provide human trafficking awareness training developed or approved pursuant to section 28- to its employees and contract workers, as applicable, within one hundred eighty days of employment or placement, as applicable, and at least every two years thereafter.
(b) Each transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor providing human trafficking awareness training under this section shall maintain records documenting the completion of the required training by its employees and contract workers, as applicable, pursuant to rules adopted by the department. The director or the director's authorized representative shall, for the purpose of examination, have access to and the right to copy the records. Every transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor shall furnish to the director or the director's authorized representative any information relating to the training of employees and contract workers pursuant to this section in any manner as the director may prescribe.
(c) No later than January 1, 2028, every transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor shall post and keep posted in a conspicuous place readily accessible to its employees and contract workers, as applicable, signage regarding human trafficking awareness in a form prescribed by the department by rule; provided that the signage shall be printed in an easily legible font in English and any other language spoken by at least ten per cent of its employees and contract workers.
(d) No later than September 1, 2027, every transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor shall develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that shall:
(1) Apply to all of its employees and contract workers, as applicable; and
(2) Include procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking to the National Human Trafficking Hotline or to a local law enforcement agency.
(e) A transient accommodations employer or its employee or a transient accommodations third-party contractor or its contract worker who in good faith complies with this section or reports suspected human trafficking pursuant to policies adopted pursuant to this section shall not be subject to civil or criminal liability for any act or omission arising out of or related to human trafficking committed by a third party, unless the employer, third-party contractor, employee, or contract worker knowingly assists in the commission of human trafficking.
(f) Any transient accommodations employer or transient accommodations third-party contractor who violates this section shall be fined no more than $100 for each separate offense. Each day the violation continues shall constitute a separate offense. Any action taken to impose or collect the penalty provided for in this subsection shall be considered a civil action.
(g) The department shall, in consultation with the department of the attorney general, adopt rules pursuant to chapter 91 necessary to carry out the purposes of this section.
(h) For purposes of this section:
"Contract worker" means an individual employed by a transient accommodations third-party contractor who, pursuant to a contract for services with a transient accommodations employer, has contact with guests or access to guest rooms of the transient accommodations.
"Employee" means an individual employed by a transient accommodations employer who has contact with guests or access to guest rooms of the transient accommodations.
"Transient accommodations" has the same meaning as in section 237D-1.
"Transient accommodations employer" means an employer that owns, operates, manages, or controls transient accommodations located in the State, and:
(1) Employs one or more employees; or
(2) Contracts with a transient accommodations third‑party contractor for the services of one or more contract workers.
"Transient accommodations third-party contractor" means any person who, for a fee or other valuable consideration exacted, charged, or received, furnishes or supplies contract workers for placement with a transient accommodations employer upon request."
SECTION 3. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.
Report Title:
AG; DLE; Human Trafficking Awareness; Transient Accommodations Sector; Training; Signage; Reporting; Penalties; Rules
Description:
Requires the Department of the Attorney General to develop a Human Trafficking Awareness Training Program, or approve externally developed programs, to educate and train workers in the transient accommodations sector. Requires transient accommodations employers or transient accommodations third-party contractors to periodically provide the human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers, keep records of the training, post signage, and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that includes procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking. Establishes penalties. Requires the Department of Law Enforcement to adopt rules. (CD1)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1960 |
|
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
H.D. 2 |
|
|
STATE OF HAWAII |
S.D. 1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
||
A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO HUMAN TRAFFICKING.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. Chapter 28, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part XIII to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§28- Human trafficking awareness training program; transient accommodations sector. (a) No later than July 1, 2027, the department of the attorney general shall develop a human trafficking awareness training program for the purpose of educating and training workers in the transient accommodations sector. The training program shall include but not be limited to the following components:
(1) Definitions of human trafficking and the commercial exploitation of children;
(2) Explanation of the differences between labor trafficking and sex trafficking, as they relate to the transient accommodations sector;
(3) Guidance on indicators of human trafficking, including the identification of:
(A) Individuals who may be vulnerable to or are victims of human trafficking; and
(B) Individuals who may be engaged in human trafficking activity;
(4) Guidance on the appropriate response and reporting procedures for transient accommodations workers when indicators of human trafficking are observed; and
(5) Contact information for:
(A) The National Human Trafficking Hotline toll‑free number and text line; and
(B) Appropriate local law enforcement agencies.
(b) A transient accommodations employer or transient accommodations third-party contractor may submit a human trafficking awareness training program developed by a party other than the department of the attorney general for approval by the department as an alternative to the training program developed pursuant to subsection (a). The department of the attorney general shall not approve any externally developed training program unless it complies with all the requirements of subsection (a). The department of the attorney general shall review the externally developed training program and either approve or disapprove its use within sixty days of written receipt of the externally developed training program.
(c) For the purposes of this section:
"Transient accommodations" has the same meaning as in section 237D‑1.
"Transient accommodations employer" has the same meaning as in section 353C- .
"Transient accommodations third-party contractor" has the same meaning as in section 353C- ."
SECTION 2. Chapter 353C, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§353C- Human trafficking awareness; transient accommodations sector; training; records; signage; reporting; penalties. (a) No later than December 1, 2027, every transient accommodations employer or transient accommodations third-party contractor shall provide human trafficking awareness training developed or approved pursuant to section 28- to its employees and contract workers, as applicable, within one hundred eighty days of employment or placement, as applicable, and at least every two years thereafter.
(b) Each transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor providing human trafficking awareness training under this section shall maintain records documenting the completion of the required training by its employees and contract workers, as applicable, pursuant to rules adopted by the department. The director or the director's authorized representative shall, for the purpose of examination, have access to and the right to copy the records. Every transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor shall furnish to the director or the director's authorized representative any information relating to the training of employees and contract workers pursuant to this section in any manner as the director may prescribe.
(c) No later than January 1, 2028, every transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor shall post and keep posted in a conspicuous place readily accessible to its employees and contract workers, as applicable, signage regarding human trafficking awareness in a form prescribed by the department by rule; provided that the signage shall be printed in an easily legible font in English and any other language spoken by at least ten per cent of its employees and contract workers.
(d) No later than September 1, 2027, every transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor shall develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that shall:
(1) Apply to all of its employees and contract workers, as applicable; and
(2) Include procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking to the National Human Trafficking Hotline or to a local law enforcement agency.
(e) A transient accommodations employer or its employee or a transient accommodations third-party contractor or its contract worker who in good faith complies with this section or reports suspected human trafficking pursuant to policies adopted pursuant to this section shall not be subject to civil or criminal liability for any act or omission arising out of or related to human trafficking committed by a third party, unless the employer, third-party contractor, employee, or contract worker knowingly assists in the commission of human trafficking.
(f) Any transient accommodations employer or transient accommodations third-party contractor who violates this section shall be fined no more than $100 for each separate offense. Each day the violation continues shall constitute a separate offense. Any action taken to impose or collect the penalty provided for in this subsection shall be considered a civil action.
(g) The department shall, in consultation with the department of the attorney general, adopt rules pursuant to chapter 91 necessary to carry out the purposes of this section.
(h) For purposes of this section:
"Contract worker" means an individual employed by a transient accommodations third-party contractor who, pursuant to a contract for services with a transient accommodations employer, has contact with guests or access to guest rooms of the transient accommodations.
"Employee" means an individual employed by a transient accommodations employer who has contact with guests or access to guest rooms of the transient accommodations.
"Transient accommodations" has the same meaning as in section 237D-1.
"Transient accommodations employer" means an employer that owns, operates, manages, or controls transient accommodations located in the State, and:
(1) Employs one or more employees; or
(2) Contracts with a transient accommodations third‑party contractor for the services of one or more contract workers.
"Transient accommodations third-party contractor" means any person who, for a fee or other valuable consideration exacted, charged, or received, furnishes or supplies contract workers for placement with a transient accommodations employer upon request."
SECTION 3. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect on March 22, 2075.
Report Title:
AG; DLE; Human Trafficking Awareness; Transient Accommodations Sector; Training; Signage; Reporting; Penalties; Rules
Description:
Requires the Department of the Attorney General to develop a Human Trafficking Awareness Training Program to educate and train workers in the transient accommodations sector. Requires transient accommodations employers or transient accommodations third-party contractors to periodically provide the human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers, keep records of the training, post signage, and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that includes procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking. Establishes penalties. Requires the Department of Law Enforcement to adopt rules. Effective 3/22/2075. (SD1)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1960 |
|
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
H.D. 2 |
|
|
STATE OF HAWAII |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
||
A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO HUMAN TRAFFICKING.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. Chapter 28, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part XIII to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§28- Human trafficking awareness training program; transient accommodations sector. (a) No later than July 1, 2027, the department of the attorney general shall develop a human trafficking awareness training program for the purpose of educating and training workers in the transient accommodations sector. The training program shall include but not be limited to the following components:
(1) Definitions of human trafficking and the commercial exploitation of children;
(2) Explanation of the differences between labor trafficking and sex trafficking, as they relate to the transient accommodations sector;
(3) Guidance on indicators of human trafficking, including the identification of:
(A) Individuals who may be vulnerable to or are victims of human trafficking; and
(B) Individuals who may be engaged in human trafficking activity;
(4) Guidance on the appropriate response and reporting procedures for transient accommodations workers when indicators of human trafficking are observed; and
(5) Contact information for:
(A) The National Human Trafficking Hotline toll‑free number and text line; and
(B) Appropriate local law enforcement agencies.
(b) A transient accommodations employer or transient accommodations third-party contractor may submit a human trafficking awareness training program developed by a party other than the department of the attorney general for approval by the department as an alternative to the training program developed pursuant to subsection (a). The department of the attorney general shall not approve any externally developed training program unless it complies with all the requirements of subsection (a). The department of the attorney general shall review the externally developed training program and either approve or disapprove its use within sixty days of written receipt of the externally developed training program.
(c) For the purposes of this section:
"Transient accommodations" has the same meaning as in section 237D‑1.
"Transient accommodations employer" has the same meaning as in section 353C- .
"Transient accommodations third-party contractor" has the same meaning as in section 353C- ."
SECTION 2. Chapter 353C, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§353C- Human trafficking awareness; transient accommodations sector; training; records; signage; reporting; penalties. (a) Beginning July 1, 2027, every transient accommodations employer or transient accommodations third-party contractor shall provide human trafficking awareness training developed or approved pursuant to section 28- to its employees and contract workers, as applicable, within one hundred eighty days of employment or placement, as applicable, and at least every two years thereafter.
(b) Each transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor providing human trafficking awareness training under this section shall maintain records documenting the completion of the required training by its employees and contract workers, as applicable, pursuant to rules adopted by the department. The director or the director's authorized representative shall, for the purpose of examination, have access to and the right to copy the records. Every transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor shall furnish to the director or the director's authorized representative any information relating to the training of employees and contract workers pursuant to this section in any manner as the director may prescribe.
(c) No later than , every transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor shall post and keep posted in a conspicuous place readily accessible to its employees and contract workers, as applicable, signage regarding human trafficking awareness in a form prescribed by the department by rule; provided that the signage shall be printed in an easily legible font in English and any other language spoken by at least ten per cent of its employees and contract workers.
(d) No later than , every transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor shall develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that shall:
(1) Apply to all of its employees and contract workers, as applicable; and
(2) Include procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking to the National Human Trafficking Hotline or to a local law enforcement agency.
(e) A transient accommodations employer or its employee or a transient accommodations third-party contractor or its contract worker who in good faith complies with this section or reports suspected human trafficking pursuant to policies adopted pursuant to this section shall not be subject to civil or criminal liability for any act or omission arising out of or related to human trafficking committed by a third party, unless the employer, third-party contractor, employee, or contract worker knowingly assists in the commission of human trafficking.
(f) Any transient accommodations employer or transient accommodations third-party contractor who violates this section shall be fined no more than $ for each separate offense. Each day the violation continues shall constitute a separate offense. Any action taken to impose or collect the penalty provided for in this subsection shall be considered a civil action.
(g) The department shall, in consultation with the department of the attorney general, adopt rules pursuant to chapter 91 necessary to carry out the purposes of this section.
(h) For purposes of this section:
"Contract worker" means an individual employed by a transient accommodations third-party contractor who, pursuant to a contract for services with a transient accommodations employer, has contact with guests or access to guest rooms of the transient accommodations.
"Employee" means an individual employed by a transient accommodations employer who has contact with guests or access to guest rooms of the transient accommodations.
"Transient accommodations" has the same meaning as in section 237D-1.
"Transient accommodations employer" means an employer that owns, operates, manages, or controls transient accommodations located in the State, and:
(1) Employs one or more employees; or
(2) Contracts with a transient accommodations third‑party contractor for the services of one or more contract workers.
"Transient accommodations third-party contractor" means any person who, for a fee or other valuable consideration exacted, charged, or received, furnishes or supplies contract workers for placement with a transient accommodations employer upon request."
SECTION 3. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 3000.
Report Title:
AG; DLE; Human Trafficking Awareness; Transient Accommodations Sector; Training; Signage; Reporting; Penalties; Rules
Description:
Requires the Department of the Attorney General to develop a Human Trafficking Awareness Training Program to educate and train workers in the transient accommodations sector. Requires transient accommodations employers or transient accommodations third-party contractors to periodically provide the human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers, keep records of the training, post signage, and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that includes procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking. Establishes penalties. Requires the Department of Law Enforcement to adopt rules. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1960 |
|
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
H.D. 1 |
|
|
STATE OF HAWAII |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
||
A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO HUMAN TRAFFICKING.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. Chapter 28, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part XIII to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§28- Human trafficking awareness training program; transient accommodations sector. (a) No later than July 1, 2027, the department of the attorney general shall develop a human trafficking awareness training program for the purpose of educating and training workers in the transient accommodations sector. The training program shall include but not be limited to the following components:
(1) Definitions of human trafficking and the commercial exploitation of children;
(2) Explanation of the differences between labor trafficking and sex trafficking, as they relate to the transient accommodations sector;
(3) Guidance on indicators of human trafficking, including identifying:
(A) Individuals who may be vulnerable to or are victims of human trafficking; and
(B) Individuals who may be engaged in human trafficking activity;
(4) Guidance on the appropriate response and reporting procedures for transient accommodations workers when indicators of human trafficking are observed; and
(5) Contact information for:
(A) The National Human Trafficking Hotline toll‑free number and text line; and
(B) Appropriate local law enforcement agencies.
(b) A transient accommodations employer or transient accommodations third-party contractor may submit a human trafficking awareness training program developed by a party other than the department of the attorney general for approval by the department as an alternative to the training program developed pursuant to subsection (a). The department of the attorney general shall not approve any externally developed training program unless it complies with all the requirements of subsection (a). The department of the attorney general shall review the externally developed training program and either approve or disapprove its use within sixty days of written receipt of the externally developed training program.
(c) For the purposes of this section:
"Transient accommodations" has the same meaning as in section 237D‑1.
"Transient accommodations employer" has the same meaning as in section 353C- .
"Transient accommodations third-party contractor" has the same meaning as in section 353C- ."
SECTION 2. Chapter 353C, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§353C- Human trafficking awareness; transient accommodations sector; training; records; signage; reporting; penalties. (a) Beginning July 1, 2027, every transient accommodations employer or transient accommodations third-party contractor shall provide human trafficking awareness training developed or approved pursuant to section 28- to its employees and contract workers, as applicable, within one hundred eighty days of employment or placement, as applicable, and at least every two years thereafter.
(b) Each transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor providing human trafficking awareness training under this section shall maintain records documenting the completion of the required training by its employees and contract workers, as applicable, pursuant to rules adopted by the department. The director or the director's authorized representative shall, for the purpose of examination, have access to and the right to copy the records. Every transient accommodations employer shall furnish to the director or the director's authorized representative any information relating to the training of employees and contract workers pursuant to this section in any manner as the director may prescribe.
(c) No later than , every transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor shall post and keep posted in a conspicuous place readily accessible to its employees and contract workers, as applicable, signage regarding human trafficking awareness in a form prescribed by the department by rule; provided that the signage shall be printed in an easily legible font in English and any other language spoken by at least ten per cent of its employees and contract workers.
(d) No later than , every transient accommodations employer and transient accommodations third-party contractor shall develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that shall:
(1) Apply to all of its employees and contract workers, as applicable; and
(2) Include procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking to the National Human Trafficking Hotline or to a local law enforcement agency.
(e) A transient accommodations employer or its employee or a transient accommodations third-party contractor or its contract worker who in good faith complies with this section or reports suspected human trafficking pursuant to policies adopted pursuant to this section shall not be subject to civil or criminal liability for any act or omission arising out of or related to human trafficking committed by a third party, unless the employer, third-party contractor, employee, or contract worker knowingly assists in the commission of human trafficking.
(f) Any transient accommodations employer or transient accommodations third-party contractor who violates this section shall be fined no more than $ for each separate offense. Each day the violation continues shall constitute a separate offense. Any action taken to impose or collect the penalty provided for in this subsection shall be considered a civil action.
(g) The department shall, in consultation with the department of the attorney general, adopt rules pursuant to chapter 91 necessary to carry out the purposes of this section.
(h) For purposes of this section:
"Contract worker" means an individual employed by a transient accommodations third-party contractor who, pursuant to a contract for services with a transient accommodations employer, has contact with guests or access to guest rooms of the transient accommodations.
"Employee" means an individual employed by a transient accommodations employer who has contact with guests or access to guest rooms of the transient accommodation.
"Transient accommodations" has the same meaning as in section 237D-1.
"Transient accommodations employer" means an employer that owns, operates, manages, or controls transient accommodations located in the State, and:
(1) Employs one or more employees; or
(2) Contracts with a transient accommodations third‑party contractor for the services of one or more contract workers.
"Transient accommodations third-party contractor" means any person who, for a fee or other valuable consideration exacted, charged, or received, furnishes or supplies contract workers for placement with a transient accommodations employer upon request."
SECTION 3. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 3000.
Report Title:
AG; DLE; Human Trafficking Awareness; Transient Accommodations Sector; Training; Signage; Reporting; Penalties; Rules
Description:
Requires the Department of the Attorney General to develop a Human Trafficking Awareness Training Program to educate and train workers in the transient accommodations sector. Requires transient accommodations employers or transient accommodations third-party contractors to periodically provide the human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers, keep records of the training, post signage, and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that includes procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking. Establishes penalties. Requires the Department of Law Enforcement to adopt rules. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1960 |
|
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
|
|
|
STATE OF HAWAII |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
||
A BILL FOR AN ACT
Relating to human trafficking.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. Chapter 28, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part XIII to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§28- Human trafficking awareness training program; transient accommodations sector. No later than , the department of the attorney general shall develop a human trafficking awareness training program for the purpose of educating and training workers in the transient accommodations sector. The training program shall include but not be limited to the following components:
(1) Definitions of human trafficking and the commercial exploitation of children;
(2) Explanation of the differences between labor trafficking and sex trafficking, as they relate to the transient accommodations sector;
(3) Guidance on indicators of human trafficking, including identifying:
(A) Individuals who may be vulnerable to or victims of human trafficking; and
(B) Individuals who may be engaged in human trafficking activity;
(5) Guidance on the appropriate response and reporting procedures for transient accommodations workers when indicators of human trafficking are observed; and
(6) Contact information for:
(A) The National Human Trafficking Hotline toll‑free number and text line; and
(B) Appropriate local law enforcement agencies.
(b) For the purposes of this section, "transient accommodations" has the same meaning as defined in section 237D‑1."
SECTION 2. Chapter 371, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§371- Human trafficking awareness; transient accommodations sector; training; records; signage; reporting; penalties. (a) Every transient accommodations employer shall provide human trafficking awareness training developed pursuant to section 28- to its employees and contract workers within one hundred eighty days of employment or placement, as applicable, and at least every two years thereafter.
(b) Each transient accommodations employer providing human trafficking awareness training under this section shall maintain records documenting the completion of the required training by its employees and contract workers pursuant to rules adopted by the department. The director or the director's authorized representative shall, for the purpose of examination, have access to and the right to copy the records. Every transient accommodations employer shall furnish to the director or the director's authorized representative any information relating to the training of employees and contract workers pursuant to this section in any manner as the director may prescribe.
(c) No later than , every transient accommodations employer shall post and keep posted in a conspicuous place readily accessible to its employees and contract workers signage regarding human trafficking awareness in a form prescribed by the department by rule; provided that the signage shall be printed in an easily legible font in English and any other language spoken by at least ten per cent of its employees and contract workers.
(d) No later than , every transient accommodations employer shall develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that shall:
(1) Apply to all of its individuals in employ and contract workers; and
(2) Include procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking to the National Human Trafficking Hotline or to a local law enforcement agency.
(e) A transient accommodations employer or its employee or contract worker who in good faith complies with this section or reports suspected human trafficking pursuant to policies adopted pursuant this section shall not be subject to civil or criminal liability for any act or omission arising out of or related to human trafficking committed by a third party, unless the employer, employee, or worker knowingly assists in the commission of human trafficking.
(f) Any transient accommodations employer who violates this section shall be fined not more than $ for each separate offense. Each day the violation continues shall constitute a separate offense. Any action taken to impose or collect the penalty provided for in this subsection shall be considered a civil action.
(g) The department shall, in consultation with the department of the attorney general, adopt rules pursuant to chapter 91 necessary to carry out the purposes of this section.
(h) For purposes of this section:
"Contract worker" means an individual employed by a transient accommodations third-party contractor who, pursuant to a contract for services with a transient accommodations employer, has contact with guests or access to guest rooms of the transient accommodations.
"Employee" means an individual employed by a transient accommodations employer who has contact with guests or access to guest rooms of the transient accommodations.
"Transient accommodations" has the same meaning as defined in section 237D-1.
"Transient accommodations employer" means an employer that owns, operates, manages, or controls transient accommodations located in the State, and:
(1) Employs one or more employees; or
(2) Contracts with a transient accommodations third‑party contractor for the services of one or more contract workers.
"Transient accommodations third-party contractor" means any person who, for a fee or other valuable consideration exacted, charged, or received, furnishes or supplies contract workers for placement with a transient accommodations employers upon request."
SECTION 3. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.
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INTRODUCED BY: |
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Report Title:
AG; DLIR; Human Trafficking Awareness; Transient Accommodations Sector; Training; Signage; Reporting; Penalties; Rules
Description:
Requires the Department of the Attorney General to develop a Human Trafficking Awareness Training Program to educate and train workers in the transient accommodations sector. Requires transient accommodations employers to periodically provide the human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers; keep records of the training; post signage; and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that includes procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking. Establishes penalties. Requires the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to adopt rules.
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
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Date
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Status
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|---|---|
| Jul 7, 2026 | Act 191, on 07/07/2026 (Gov. Msg. No. 1293). |
| Jul 7, 2026 | Act 191, 07/07/2026 (Gov. Msg. No. 1293). |
| May 8, 2026 | Received notice of passage on Final Reading in House (Hse. Com. No. 888). |
| May 7, 2026 | Transmitted to Governor. |
| May 6, 2026 | Received notice of Final Reading (Sen. Com. No. 816). |
| May 6, 2026 | Passed Final Reading as amended in CD 1 with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and none excused (0). |
| May 6, 2026 | Passed Final Reading, as amended (CD 1). Ayes, 25; Aye(s) with reservations: none . 0 No(es): none. 0 Excused: none. |
| May 1, 2026 | 48 Hrs. Notice (as amended CD 1) 05-06-26 |
| May 1, 2026 | Reported from Conference Committee as amended CD 1 (Conf. Com. Rep. No. 126-26). |
| May 1, 2026 | Forty-eight (48) hours notice Wednesday, 05-06-26. |
| May 1, 2026 | Reported from Conference Committee (Conf Com. Rep. No. 126-26) as amended in (CD 1). |
| Apr 30, 2026 | The Conference Committee recommends that the measure be Passed, with Amendments. The votes were as follows: 6 Ayes: Representative(s) Tam, Sayama, Poepoe, Templo, Ratcliffe, Gedeon; Ayes with reservations: none; 0 Noes: none; and 0 Excused: none. |
| Apr 30, 2026 | The Conference committee recommends that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes of the Senate Conference Managers were as follows: 2 Aye(s): Senator(s) Rhoads, Elefante; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 1 Excused: Senator(s) Awa. |
| Apr 29, 2026 | Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Thursday 04-30-26 3:45PM in conference room 325. |
| Apr 28, 2026 | Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Wednesday 04-29-26 3:45PM in conference room 325. |
| Apr 27, 2026 | Bill scheduled for Conference Committee Meeting on Tuesday, 04-28-26 3:50PM in conference room 325. |
| Apr 27, 2026 | Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 778). |
| Apr 27, 2026 | Senate Conferees Appointed: Rhoads Chair; Elefante Co-Chair; Awa. |
| Apr 20, 2026 | Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 786). |
| Apr 20, 2026 | House Conferees Appointed: Tam, Sayama, Poepoe, Templo Co-Chairs; Ratcliffe, Gedeon. |
| Apr 20, 2026 | Re-referred to TOU, LAB, JHA, FIN, referral sheet 30 |
| Apr 16, 2026 | Received notice of disagreement (Hse. Com. No. 599). |
| Apr 14, 2026 | House disagrees with Senate amendment (s). |
| Apr 10, 2026 | Returned from Senate (Sen. Com. No. 538) in amended form (SD 1). |
| Apr 10, 2026 | Report Adopted; Passed Third Reading. Ayes, 25; Aye(s) with reservations: none. Noes, 0 (none). Excused, 0 (none). Transmitted to House. |
| Apr 9, 2026 | One Day Notice 04-10-26. |
| Apr 9, 2026 | Reported from WAM (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 3645) with recommendation of passage on Third Reading. |
| Apr 6, 2026 | The committee(s) on WAM recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes in WAM were as follows: 12 Aye(s): Senator(s) Dela Cruz, Moriwaki, DeCoite, Elefante, Hashimoto, Inouye, Kanuha, Kidani, Kim, Richards, Wakai, Fevella; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 1 Excused: Senator(s) Lee, C.. |
| Apr 1, 2026 | The committee(s) on WAM will hold a public decision making on 04-06-26 10:32AM; Conference Room 211 & Videoconference. |
| Mar 30, 2026 | Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. |
| Mar 30, 2026 | Reported from JDC (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 3345) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM. |
| Mar 27, 2026 | The committee(s) on JDC recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes in JDC were as follows: 3 Aye(s): Senator(s) Rhoads, Gabbard, Chang; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 2 Excused: Senator(s) San Buenaventura, Awa. |
| Mar 23, 2026 | The committee(s) on JDC has scheduled a public hearing on 03-27-26 10:00AM; Conference Room 016 & Videoconference. |
| Mar 23, 2026 | Re-Referred to JDC, WAM. |
| Mar 12, 2026 | Referred to JDC/PSM, WAM. |
| Mar 12, 2026 | Passed First Reading. |
| Mar 12, 2026 | Received from House (Hse. Com. No. 326). |
| Mar 10, 2026 | Passed Third Reading as amended in HD 2 with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Kong, Pierick excused (2). Transmitted to Senate. |
| Mar 6, 2026 | Forty-eight (48) hours notice Tuesday, 03-10-26. |
| Mar 6, 2026 | Reported from JHA (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1133-26) as amended in HD 2, recommending passage on Third Reading. |
| Feb 24, 2026 | The committee on JHA recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 8 Ayes: Representative(s) Tarnas, Poepoe, Belatti, Cochran, Kahaloa, Sayama, Takayama, Shimizu; Ayes with reservations: none; 0 Noes: none; and 2 Excused: Representative(s) Hashem, Garcia. |
| Feb 20, 2026 | Bill scheduled to be heard by JHA on Tuesday, 02-24-26 2:00PM in House conference room 325 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. |
| Feb 20, 2026 | Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on JHA with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Quinlan excused (1). |
| Feb 20, 2026 | Reported from LAB (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 648-26), recommending referral to JHA. |
| Feb 19, 2026 | The committee on LAB recommend that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes were as follows: 5 Ayes: Representative(s) Sayama, Lee, M., Garrett, Kapela, Reyes Oda; Ayes with reservations: none; Noes: none; and 1 Excused: Representative(s) Kong. |
| Feb 17, 2026 | Bill scheduled to be heard by LAB on Thursday, 02-19-26 9:30AM in House conference room 309 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. |
| Feb 10, 2026 | Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on LAB with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and none excused (0). |
| Feb 9, 2026 | Reported from TOU (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 60-26) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to LAB. |
| Feb 5, 2026 | The committee on TOU recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 7 Ayes: Representative(s) Tam, Templo, Holt, Hussey, Ilagan, Yamashita, Gedeon; Ayes with reservations: none; Noes: none; and Excused: none. |
| Feb 2, 2026 | Bill scheduled to be heard by TOU on Thursday, 02-05-26 9:30AM in House conference room 423 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. |
| Jan 28, 2026 | Referred to TOU, LAB, JHA, referral sheet 3 |
| Jan 26, 2026 | Introduced and Pass First Reading. |
| Jan 23, 2026 | Pending introduction. |
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Date
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Description
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Location
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Votes
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| May 6, 2026 | Final Reading | House Floor |
Passed |
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| May 6, 2026 | Final Reading | Senate Floor |
Passed |
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| Apr 10, 2026 | Third Reading | Senate Floor |
Passed |
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| Apr 6, 2026 | The committee(s) on WAM recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED | Senate Standing Committee on Ways and Means |
Passed |
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| Mar 27, 2026 | The committee(s) on JDC recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | Senate Standing Committee on Judiciary |
Passed |
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| Mar 10, 2026 | Third Reading | House Floor |
Passed |
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| Feb 24, 2026 | The committee on JHA recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | House Standing Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs |
Passed |
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| Feb 19, 2026 | The committee on LAB recommend that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED | House Standing Committee on Labor |
Passed |
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| Feb 5, 2026 | The committee on TOU recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | House Standing Committee on Tourism |
Passed |
This list shows positions taken on this bill by organizations on the date displayed, which is linked to the original source.
Positions by individuals are not included.
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Organization
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Position
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Date
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| AMERICAN HOTEL & LODGING ASSOCIATION | ** Support | |
| American Hotel & Lodging Association | *** Support | Feb 5, 2026 |
| Department of Labor and Industrial Relations | ** Support | |
| Department of Law Enforcement | ** Support | |
| Hawaii Hotel Alliance | ** Support | |
| Hawaii State Commission on the Status of Women | *** Support | Apr 5, 2026 |
| Hawaii Women Lawyers | *** Support | Apr 5, 2026 |
| Imua Alliance | *** Support | Apr 5, 2026 |
| Office of Hawaiian Affairs | *** Support | Apr 5, 2026 |
STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1133-26
Honolulu, Hawaii
, 2026
RE: H.B. No. 1960
H.D. 2
Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2026
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs, to which was referred H.B. No. 1960, H.D. 1, entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO HUMAN TRAFFICKING,"
begs leave to report as follows:
The purpose of this measure is to require:
(1) The Department of the Attorney General to develop a human trafficking awareness training program for workers in the transient accommodations sector; and
(2) Transient accommodations employers and third‑party contractors to provide the human trafficking awareness training and establish human trafficking prevention policies.
Your Committee finds that human trafficking is a deeply harmful form of exploitation that disproportionately impacts the State's most vulnerable populations, including Native Hawaiians. Your Committee further finds that victims of human trafficking are often hidden in plain sight and that the transient accommodation sector can be a critical point of identification of these victims. This measure ensures that employees in the transient accommodation sector have the training necessary to help identify human trafficking.
Your Committee has amended this measure by making technical, nonsubstantive amendments for the purposes of clarity, consistency, and style.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1960, H.D. 1, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Third Reading in the form attached hereto as H.B. No. 1960, H.D. 2.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs,
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____________________________ DAVID A. TARNAS, Chair |
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STAND. COM. REP. NO. 648-26
Honolulu, Hawaii
, 2026
RE: H.B. No. 1960
H.D. 1
Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2026
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committee on Labor, to which was referred H.B. No. 1960, H.D. 1, entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO HUMAN TRAFFICKING,"
begs leave to report as follows:
The purpose of this measure is to:
(1) Require the Department of the Attorney General to develop a human trafficking awareness training program for workers in the transient accommodations sector; and
(2) Require transient accommodations employers and third‑party contractors to provide the training and establish human trafficking prevention policies.
Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs; Department of Law Enforcement; and Imua Alliance.
Your Committee finds that human trafficking remains a pervasive and evolving threat in Hawaii, with transient accommodations frequently identified as high-risk locations where traffickers exploit anonymity and guest turnover to evade detection. Workers in hotels, resorts, and short-term rental operations often encounter warning signs but may lack adequate training, clear reporting procedures, or workplace support to safely identify and respond to potential trafficking situations. This measure will ensure frontline workers in the State's visitor industry are equipped with the tools needed to recognize trafficking indicators, strengthen early intervention, and enhance public safety across Hawaii's tourism sector.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Labor that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1960, H.D. 1, and recommends that it be referred to your Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Labor,
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____________________________ JACKSON D. SAYAMA, Chair |
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STAND. COM. REP. NO. 60-26
Honolulu, Hawaii
, 2026
RE: H.B. No. 1960
H.D. 1
Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2026
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committee on Tourism, to which was referred H.B. No. 1960 entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO HUMAN TRAFFICKING,"
begs leave to report as follows:
The purpose of this measure is to:
(1) Require the Department of the Attorney General to develop a human trafficking awareness training program to educate and train workers in the transient accommodations sector; and
(2) Require employers in the transient accommodations sector to periodically provide human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers, keep records, post signage, and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy.
Your Committee finds that human trafficking remains a serious and persistent threat to the safety and well‑being of the State's residents and visitors. Your Committee further finds that transient accommodations are frequently used by traffickers to recruit, exploit, and conceal victims and that workers in hotels and other transient accommodations are uniquely positioned to identify potential trafficking situations. This measure is intended to strengthen the State's efforts to prevent human trafficking by requiring the establishment of a human trafficking awareness training program for the transient accommodations sector to ensure appropriate accountability and compliance mechanisms.
Your Committee has amended this measure by:
(1) Requiring the Department of the Attorney General to develop a human trafficking awareness training program no later than July 1, 2027, and requiring transient accommodations employers and transient accommodations third-party contractors to provide training to certain employees and contract workers beginning July 1, 2027;
(2) Allowing the Department of the Attorney General to approve an externally created human trafficking awareness training program for use in the transient accommodations sector;
(3) Requiring transient accommodations third-party contractors, as well as transient accommodations employers, to periodically provide human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers, keep records, post signage, and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy;
(4) Requiring the Department of Law Enforcement, rather than the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, to develop rules and enforce human trafficking awareness training requirements;
(5) Changing the effective date to July 1, 3000, to encourage further discussion; and
(6) Making technical, nonsubstantive amendments for the purposes of clarity, consistency, and style.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Tourism that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1960, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Second Reading in the form attached hereto as H.B. No. 1960, H.D. 1, and be referred to your Committee on Labor.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Tourism,
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____________________________ ADRIAN K. TAM, Chair |
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Date
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Testimony PDF
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|---|---|
| Apr 5, 2026 | HB1960_SD1_TESTIMONY_WAM_04-06-26_.PDF |
| Mar 26, 2026 | HB1960_HD2_TESTIMONY_JDC_03-27-26_.PDF |
| Feb 24, 2026 | HB1960_HD1_TESTIMONY_JHA_02-24-26_.PDF |
| Feb 18, 2026 | HB1960_HD1_TESTIMONY_LAB_02-19-26_.PDF |
| Feb 5, 2026 | HB1960_TESTIMONY_TOU-ECD_02-05-26_.PDF |
Discussed in Hearing
5MIN
Conference Committee
1MIN
Conference Committee
1MIN
Conference Committee
1MIN
Senate Standing Committee on Judiciary
2MIN
Senate Standing Committee on Judiciary
3MIN
House Standing Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs
33SEC
House Standing Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs
18SEC
House Standing Committee on Labor
Bill Author
Bill Co-Author(s):
