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Bill

SB 549

AN ACT RELATING TO BUSINESSES AND PROFESSIONS -- THE HUMAN TRAFFICKING PREVENTION NOTICE ACT

2025 Regular Session Introduced by John Burke and 7 co-sponsors

Rhode Island requires certain businesses to display human trafficking awareness notices with hotline contact information to help identify and report trafficking victims.

06/24/2025 Signed by Governor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 549

Legislative bill overview

SB 549, the Human Trafficking Prevention Notice Act, requires certain businesses in Rhode Island to display prominent notices informing customers about human trafficking and providing contact information for reporting resources like the National Human Trafficking Hotline. The bill mandates these notices in specific high-risk venues including hotels, massage establishments, and other businesses identified as locations where trafficking may occur.

Why is this important

Human trafficking is a serious crime that generates billions in illegal profits annually and affects vulnerable populations. Public awareness campaigns and visible hotline information have demonstrated effectiveness in helping trafficking victims access help and enabling bystanders to report suspected trafficking. This legislation aims to increase identification and intervention in trafficking situations by ensuring potential victims and witnesses have easily accessible reporting information.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs and compliance burden: Businesses must design, print, and maintain notices across multiple locations, with specific language and visibility requirements that could create administrative and financial obligations, particularly for smaller establishments
  • Effectiveness and scope questions: Critics may question whether notice requirements alone significantly impact trafficking prevention, or whether resources would be better directed toward law enforcement, victim services, or investigation
  • Definitional and regulatory clarity: The bill's specification of which business categories must comply could face disputes about whether certain establishments are fairly included or excluded, and whether regulations adequately define compliance standards

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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