FL S0972

Creates a civil cause of action allowing victims of human trafficking or the Statewide Council on Human Trafficking to sue traffickers and facilitators for compensatory and punitive damages with no statute of limitations.

Imposes mandatory civil penalties of $100,000 against defendants when victims prevail, with proceeds deposited into a Trust Fund for Victims of Human Trafficking and Prevention, plus an additional $50,000 penalty awarded to law enforcement agencies that rescued victims or located abuse sites.

Requires the Attorney General to recommend educational programs by January 31, 2018 for public lodging establishment employees to identify and report human trafficking, with vicarious liability protection for establishments that complete training within 30 days of hire or by July 1, 2018.

Establishes investigative subpoena authority for criminal justice agencies in cases involving sexual exploitation or abuse of children, with 180-day nondisclosure periods that can be extended indefinitely, subject to judicial review.

Appropriates $153,000 in recurring funds and $29,000 in nonrecurring funds from the Crimes Compensation Trust Fund to the Department of Legal Affairs with three authorized full-time positions, effective October 1, 2017.