California 2025-2026 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB1918

Introduced
2/12/26  
Refer
3/9/26  
Report Pass
3/24/26  
Refer
3/25/26  
Report Pass
4/8/26  
Refer
4/8/26  
Refer
4/9/26  
Report Pass
4/22/26  
Engrossed
5/4/26  
Refer
5/5/26  
Refer
5/13/26  
Report Pass
6/4/26  

Caption

An act to amend Section 52.6 of the Civil Code, relating to human trafficking.

Impact

The bill modifies current regulations under the Safe Body Art Act by integrating human trafficking awareness directly into the registration and operation process of body art practitioners. It imposes a requirement for body art facilities to display informative notices about human trafficking and to train employees in recognizing and reporting signs of trafficking. The legislation is structured to improve public safety, support victim identification and assistance, and streamline regulations for body art practitioners. Additionally, by ensuring that training is accessible at no cost, the bill aims to mitigate financial barriers that could prevent compliance.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1918 aims to enhance the measures against human trafficking specifically within the realm of body art practitioners in California. It extends existing legislation that mandates certain businesses to provide training and post notices related to human trafficking by requiring body art facilities to implement similar protocols. Body art practitioners must undergo human trafficking awareness training, developed by the Department of Justice in partnership with relevant agencies, to recognize human trafficking signs, offer support, and report suspected cases. This initiative targets the protection of vulnerable individuals and promotes a unified approach to combat human trafficking in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 1918 carries a positive connotation among supporters who view it as a significant step forward in addressing the critical issue of human trafficking. Advocates suggest that increasing awareness and training within the body art community is a vital measure that not only aids in potential victim recovery but also fosters a culture of vigilance and responsibility among practitioners. However, the implementation may present challenges regarding compliance and the potential need for additional resources to support training programs effectively.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the concerns regarding the increased operational burdens placed on small body art businesses, which may argue that the additional training and regulatory requirements could be financially and logistically taxing. Moreover, the effectiveness of the mandated training in producing tangible outcomes in the realm of human trafficking is an important consideration that many stakeholders will scrutinize as the bill moves through its legislative process. The ongoing discussion emphasizes the balance between enhancing protections for potential victims and maintaining economic viability for businesses.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA SB1018

Human trafficking: specialized license plates.

CA AB1845

An act to amend Sections 67380, 67381, and 67383 of, to add Section 66281.85 to, and to repeal and add Section 67381.1 of, the Education Code, relating to postsecondary education.

CA SB1022

An act to add Title 6.7 (commencing with Section 13990) to Part 4 of the Penal Code, relating to human trafficking.

CA AB549

Emergency services: human trafficking.

CA HB927

A BILL to amend and reenact ยงยง 9.1-116.4 and 9.1-116.5 of the Code of Virginia and to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 9.1-116.5:1, relating to human trafficking digital identification and reporting platforms; duties of Human Trafficking Response Coordinator; quarterly reports.

CA HB201

An Act To Amend Title 11 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Victims Of Human Trafficking.

CA HB1308

Duties of the human trafficking commission and immunity for reporting human trafficking; to provide a continuing appropriation; and to provide a contingent effective date.

CA HB1308

AN ACT to amend and reenact sections 54-12-33 and 54-12-33.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to duties of the human trafficking commission and immunity for reporting human trafficking; to provide a continuing appropriation; and to provide a contingent effective date.

CA HB1960

Relating To Human Trafficking.

CA AB2451

Dependency: victims of human trafficking.

Similar Bills

CA SB1022

Human trafficking: California Multidisciplinary Alliance to Stop Trafficking Act.

HI HB609

Relating To Sex Trafficking.

HI HB609

Relating To Sex Trafficking.

CA AR5

Relative to National Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

NJ A4152

Requires Attorney General to establish Human Trafficking Unit in Department of Law and Public Safety.

NJ S379

Requires Attorney General to establish Human Trafficking Unit in Department of Law and Public Safety.

DE HCR4

Recognizing The Month Of January 2025 As "human Trafficking Awareness Month" In Delaware.

CA ACR9

National Human Trafficking Awareness Month.