Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Young bill to increase human trafficking awareness training set to become law

Young bill to increase human trafficking awareness training set to become law

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    July 12, 2026 | 5:03 PM

HARRISBURG, July 12 – Legislation sponsored by state Rep. Regina Young, D-Phila./Delaware, to mandate human-trafficking awareness training for Pennsylvania workers in the hospitality industry, including for online lodging and reservation companies, is set to become law having gained final approval in the state House and Senate today.

“I’m so proud to have this vision finally get to the governor’s desk,” Young said. “I’ve been working on this concept with my legislative colleagues in the PA Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus, Philadelphia City Council, and the lodging industry for several years to develop an agreeable plan for everyone, so this is a long time coming.

“Training the staff who are most engaged with guests in hotels, motels and other short-term lodging options how to recognize and report suspected trafficking will make a big difference in eliminating its scrouge from our communities. We’ve also included online reservation services to account for their specific set of warning signs, as a popular and easy option to bypass face-to-face interaction,” she added.

House Bill 1286 has overwhelming industry support and was unanimously approved in the House. Governor Josh Shapiro has 10 days to sign the bill into law.

The 185th Legislative District is comprised of areas in South and Southwest Philadelphia, along with Tinicum Township and Colwyn Borough in Delaware County.

Prime sponsor of H.B. 1286 Rep. Regina Young, D-Phila./Delaware, with cosponsors Rep. Robert Leadbeter, R-Columbia, and Rep. Tarik Khan, D-Phila.