65C-46.019. Standards for At-Risk Houses

(1) The child-caring agency providing services for youth who are at risk of sex trafficking must meet the licensing requirements set forth in Rules 65C-46.001 through 65C-46.014, F.A.C., in addition to the program standards outlined in this rule.

(2) The child-caring agency may utilize a shift or house parent staffing model.

(3) The child-caring agency shall develop policies and procedures for all services provided, and home or facility security plans.

(4) Training.

(a) The child-caring agency shall ensure all direct care staff complete pre-service training requirements in paragraph 65C-46.011(9)(c), F.A.C., and receive an additional 12 hours of Department-approved, specialized training on human trafficking. The specialized training must be completed within two months from the completion of pre-service training. The 12-hour Department approved training on human trafficking shall be delivered by a trainer certified by the Department. Staff who complete pre-service training are permitted to have unsupervised contact with children during the completion of the specifialized training. Training topics shall include:

1. Pathways to entry and vulnerabilities;

2. Human trafficking and at-risk children;

3. Understanding the impact of trauma;

4. Essential service delivery and collaboration; and

5. Motivational Interviewing.

(b) The child-caring agency shall ensure there are available staff trained in a Department-approved human trafficking prevention education curriculum to facilitate to youth residing in the home.

(c) Of the 40 hours of annual in-service training required in paragraph 65C-46.011(9)(d), F.A.C., eight (8) hours shall be focused on human trafficking. 

(5) Admission. Prior to admission, the child-caring agency shall ensure the child or youth meets criteria for “at risk of sex trafficking,” as defined in Rule 65C-46.001, F.A.C.

(6) Client Services. The child-caring agency must provide high-quality, supportive services for youth to include, but are not limited to:

(a) Family/group/individual counseling;

(b) Treatment and intervention for sexual assault, if applicable;

(c) Substance abuse and mental health screening;

(d) Life skills;

(e) Vocational or educational supports;

(f) Discharge planning;

(g) Behavioral health care, if applicable;

(h) Mentoring; and

(i) Programming related to the prevention of sex-trafficking including healthy relationships, interpersonal boundaries, community engagement, etc.

Rulemaking Authority 409.175(5) FS. Law Implemented 409.175 FS. History–New 5-26-21, Formerly 64C-14.1183, Amended 7-27-22.