New Human Trafficking Prevention Requirements for Tattoo and Body Piercing Studios

House Bill (HB) 1778, 89th Legislature, adds new human trafficking prevention requirements for tattoo studios and body piercing studios regulated under Chapter 146, Health and Safety Code. The new law includes employee training requirements and expands human trafficking awareness sign-posting requirements. 

Training Requirement 

Each employee of a tattoo studio or body piercing studio must complete a human trafficking prevention training course approved by the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) within the timeframe established by agency rule. At least one training course will be free of charge. 

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is working with HHSC to provide a list of approved courses on the Texas Human Trafficking Resource Center Training webpage.  

Human Trafficking Awareness Signs 

HB 1778 also expands the human trafficking awareness sign-posting requirement to include body piercing studios. Tattoo and body piercing studios must ensure required human trafficking awareness signs are displayed as required by applicable state law. 

The required human trafficking sign may be found on the Office of the Attorney General webpage.  

Implementation of New Requirements 

DSHS is undergoing rulemaking to establish training timeframes and other implementation requirements. Additional information, including approved training courses, implementation timelines, and rulemaking updates, will be posted by DSHS as it becomes available. 

DSHS appreciates the continued cooperation of tattoo and body piercing studios in supporting public health and helping identify and assist victims of human trafficking.