Assemblywoman Paulin’s Human Trafficking Bill Signed Into Law

ALBANY, NY (October 28, 2026) — Assemblywoman Amy Paulin (D-Westchester) announced that her bill aimed at strengthening protections for human trafficking victims has been enacted into law. The new legislation, part of Chapter 365 of 2026, establishes penalties for lodging facilities that fail to comply with New York State’s requirement to post information about available services for these victims.

The legislation targets hotels, motels, and similar establishments that do not provide crucial information about resources to help trafficking victims. Despite the posting requirement being in place since 2018, some facilities have not adhered to the law, potentially denying victims vital information that could facilitate their escape from trafficking.

“Human trafficking festers in the shadows, and every opportunity we have to connect victims with lifesaving resources matters,” Paulin stated. “These postings can provide a victim with the information they need to seek help and escape exploitation. This legislation helps ensure that lodging facilities comply with the law and do their part in the fight against human trafficking.”

State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, who sponsored the Senate bill, remarked, “Human trafficking is a multi-billion-dollar industry that profits off the exploitation and abuse of vulnerable people, and too often hotels and motels serve as hubs for this activity. Although New York State mandates that hotels post information on services for these victims, not every place complies with this. This new law places penalties on these facilities that are in noncompliance with this law, to ensure that this information is as accessible to people who need it as possible. I am grateful to have worked with Assemblywoman Paulin on this and I am proud to see it signed into law.”

Paulin added, “I remain committed to advancing policies that protect vulnerable populations and ensure that all New Yorkers have access to the support they need. I am proud to see this important bill signed into law and thank Governor Hochul for her leadership to help protect survivors and combat human trafficking across our state.”

This article was prepared with the assistance of AI tools under the direction and editing of Robert Cox.

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