CT SB01043

Extends confidentiality protections in section 52-146k to communications between human trafficking victims and human trafficking counselors, mirroring existing protections for domestic violence and sexual assault victims.

Defines "human trafficking agency" as any office, shelter, or agency providing crisis intervention, emergency shelter referral, and medical and legal advocacy to human trafficking victims.

Defines "human trafficking counselor" as a person employed by a human trafficking agency who completes minimum 20 hours of training on trafficking dynamics, crisis intervention, and criminal justice systems, and is certified by the agency.

Establishes that human trafficking counselors cannot disclose confidential victim communications in civil, criminal, or administrative proceedings unless the victim waives privilege; location of agency and counselor identity remain protected in all cases.

Adds human trafficking counselors to mandatory reporting requirements under section 17a-101 and exempts them from professional counselor licensing requirements under section 20-195bb, effective October 1, 2017.