Beginning January 1, 2021 requirements for reporting procedures for human trafficking and signage will become effective. These requirements can be found in 456.0341(3), Florida Statutes and 480.043(13) Florida Statutes.
Is my establishment required to have procedures for reporting human trafficking?
Yes. Section 480.043(13), Florida Statutes requires massage establishments to implement a procedure for reporting suspected human trafficking to the National Human Trafficking Hotline or to a local law enforcement agency.
Your procedure may be simple but must include contacting the National Human Trafficking Hotline or a local law enforcement agency. You may include additional steps like notifying your DEM or following additional corporate policies.
If you need more information when creating your procedure, we would encourage you to consider the following resources:
What signs are required?
There are two signage requirements for massage establishments.
- The first sign is required by 456.0341(3), Florida Statutes. It must be conspicuously displayed in a place accessible to employees, and substantially state:
If you or someone you know is being forced to engage in an activity and cannot leave, whether it is prostitution, housework, farm work, factory work, retail work, restaurant work, or any other activity, call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 888-373-7888 or text INFO or HELP to 233-733 to access help and services. Victims of slavery and human trafficking are protected under United States and Florida law.
This sign must be at least 11 inches by 15 inches, clearly legible, and the print must be at least 32-point type. Sample signs that meet this requirement are available at https://www.flhealthsource.gov/humantrafficking/#signs.
- The second sign is required by 480.043(13), Florida Statutes. It must contain the relevant parts of your reporting procedure and must be posted in a conspicuous place which is accessible to your employees.
What if I’m a sole proprietor?
The reporting procedure and sign are required for all licensed massage establishments in Florida.
