CALIFORNIA’s ANTI-TRAFFICKING EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

SB 963 

On September 26, 2024, California Governor approved SB 963. Approved by the Governor. SB 963 introduces a proactive approach to identifying and assisting victims of human trafficking and domestic violence within the healthcare system, specifically targeting emergency departments in general acute care hospitals. This legislation addresses several critical areas: 

By mandating confidential self-identification processes, SB 963 respects the privacy and safety of potential victims. This element is essential because many victims may hesitate to seek help due to fear of retaliation or lack of trust in institutional systems. Ensuring confidentiality can encourage more individuals to come forward and receive assistance. 

Prompt interaction with medical personnel not only allows for timely assessment and treatment of any physical injuries or health concerns but also provides a critical first point of contact for identifying and documenting signs of abuse. This rapid response can be crucial in intervening before further harm occurs and creating a pathway to support services. 

Referring patients to local services specialized in assisting trafficking and domestic violence victims helps hospitals address patients' needs beyond immediate medical care. Access to shelters, counseling, legal aid, and social services can play a pivotal role in victims’ long-term safety and recovery. 

By collecting data on the age and racial demographics of self-identified trafficking victims, this legislation will produce important insights into the affected populations. Such data could guide future policy and funding decisions, enabling more targeted intervention efforts. It may also help identify trends, risk factors, and gaps in current support systems. 

SB 963 does not impose reimbursement requirements, aligning with California’s broader goal of imposing minimal financial burdens on local agencies while still enhancing public health and safety protections. This aspect suggests that the legislation's creators aimed to balance new procedural requirements for hospitals with fiscal pragmatism. 

SB 963 demonstrates a well-rounded approach to addressing human trafficking in emergency care settings by integrating patient privacy, direct assistance, and collaboration with community resources. This law reflects an awareness of the unique role that hospitals can play in identifying and supporting trafficking and domestic violence victims, aiming to enhance victims' access to safety and resources without compromising confidentiality. 

 

SECTION 1. Section 1281.5 is added to the Health and Safety Code, to read: 

1281.5.  

(a) All general acute care hospitals with an emergency department shall make a self-identifying human trafficking system available to patients at the emergency department. 

(b) The system shall meet the following minimum requirements: 

(1) Provide patient confidentiality. 

(2) Facilitate an immediate interview with medical personnel. 

(3) Refer patients to local services and resources for victims of human trafficking and domestic violence. 

(c) The system shall collect, at minimum, the total number, ages, and racial demographics of patients who self-identify as a victim of human trafficking. 

SEC. 2. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIII B of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIII B of the California Constitution. 


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