Staff report
Human trafficking is a public health issue and a violation of human rights that occurs throughout the world and in communities across Minnesota. Sexual exploitation and human trafficking in Minnesota is commonly overlooked, misidentified, and goes underreported. Those working in the hospitality industry have a unique opportunity to identify and help prevent sex trafficking.
The role of hotels and motels
Everyone has a role to play in preventing sex trafficking. Hotels and motels are common locations for trafficking to occur. Those working in the hospitality industry can prevent sex trafficking by recognizing key signs of sex trafficking and knowing how to respond. Hotel and motel owners, managers, and staff can help identify victims and save lives.
Safety of staff and guests is also important. Staff members can help keep everyone safe by being able to recognize trafficking within a hotel.
Required training for hotel and motel staff
Minnesota law now requires sex trafficking prevention training for all hotels and motels in the state. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), in partnership with the Minnesota Lodging Association, created the Sex Trafficking Prevention and Response Training for the Minnesota Lodging Industry (The Minnesota Hotel Training Package) for hotels and motels to use to satisfy this law.
Hotel and motel operators are required to:
. Ensure all owners, managers, and employees who work on site receive training to identify sex trafficking in their establishments and know how to respond; . Initial training for existing owners, managers, and staff is required by November 28, 2018 and then on a yearly basis after that; . New employees must receive this training within 90 days of hire; . See the statute for some exceptions. . Post and maintain the approved poster with information on sex trafficking in hotels. The poster must be placed in a location visible to all staff. . Conduct an ongoing awareness campaign for employees.
Hotels and motels are key players in addressing sex trafficking in all Minnesota communities. The Minnesota Department of Health has provided the tools and resources needed for hotels and motels to comply with this requirement.
The Minnesota Hotel Training Package:
The training will take 40 minutes or less to complete.
The Minnesota Hotel Training Package includes the following required items: . Managers/Owners Training Toolkit . Minnesota Training Virtual Presentation— A three part video with guided practices. . Training Guide for all trainees. . Poster Set: back of house (required to post); housekeeping/maintenance/room service; front desk/concierge/lobby; restaurant/bar; security.
About Safe Harbor:
The Safe Harbor Program provides a coordinated approach to addressing sexual exploitation and human trafficking. By working across state agencies and with community partnerships, Safe Harbor provides services, housing, and funding to support sexually exploited youth and prevent sex and labor trafficking.
If you work in the hospitality industry and suspect sex trafficking, follow your employer’s protocols to respond. Know you do not need to address sex trafficking alone. Safe Harbor can help support hotels and motels throughout the state.
Contact Caroline Palmer at caroline. palmer@state.mn.us or 651-201-5492 or Beatriz Menanteau at beatriz.menanteau@ state.mn.us or 651-201-4154.
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