POCONOS VRO | RESPONSIBLE HOSPITALITY
Human Trafficking
Awareness & Prevention
Protecting People. Protecting Communities. Doing Our Part.
Recognizing the signs of human trafficking and knowing how to respond can make a life-changing difference. Together, we can help protect our guests, our teams, and our communities.
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Responsible Hospitality Starts With Awareness
Human trafficking can happen anywhere, including hotels and vacation rentals. As members of Pennsylvania's hospitality industry, short-term rental owners, property managers, and their teams have an important role in recognizing warning signs and preventing exploitation.
Preventing human trafficking isn't just a legal obligation. It's the right thing to do.
👥Who Should Take Training?
STR owners, property managers, co-hosts, housekeeping and maintenance personnel, and other hospitality workers. Legal requirements vary by role, but we encourage everyone to participate.
🛡️What Will You Learn?
How to identify possible warning signs, respond appropriately, report concerns safely, and help prevent exploitation at lodging properties.
Pennsylvania's Training Requirements
Under Act 31 of 2026, certain hospitality personnel and short-term rental operators must complete approved human trafficking awareness training.
JUL 202027
Law takes effect
OCT 182027
Existing personnel deadline
2 YEARS
Training renewal cycle
New personnel generally have 90 days after hiring. Requirements for new short-term rental operators and listing platforms may differ. Keep proof of completion and review the rules applicable to your business.
Get Trained. Make a Difference.
Pennsylvania's Commission on Crime and Delinquency maintains the official list of approved training programs. Only listed programs satisfy Act 31 training requirements.
🎓The Code
Training for hosts of accommodation booking platforms, including short-term rental operators.
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📘BEST Training Resources
Supplemental human trafficking prevention materials for short-term rental operators.
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Official Pennsylvania Training DirectoryCheck the state's current approved training list and compliance guidance before selecting a course.
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Recognize the Signs. Know How to Respond.
Potential warning signs include individuals who appear fearful or controlled, cannot speak freely, or show other indications of possible exploitation. No single indicator proves trafficking is taking place.
Be Alert
Pay attention to concerning behavior and patterns without making assumptions about individuals.
Respond Safely
Do not confront suspected traffickers or investigate on your own. Contact appropriate authorities and follow established reporting procedures.
Suspect Human Trafficking?
Immediate danger? Call 911. For other concerns, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline or Pennsylvania State Police.
National Human Trafficking Hotline
Call: 1-888-373-7888
Text: 233733 (BEFREE)
Pennsylvania State Police
Call: 888-292-1919
Email: tips@pa.gov
