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Lawmakers debate wider enforcement tools for illicit massage businesses and stronger penalties
Summary
The Senate Committee on Judiciary held a public hearing Thursday on House Bill 3,819 A, which sponsors said would expand enforcement tools against illicit massage businesses, increase penalties for unlicensed operations and add mandatory‑reporter duties for licensed massage therapists.
The Senate Committee on Judiciary held a public hearing Thursday on House Bill 3,819 A, a measure sponsors described as a four‑part strategy to curb illicit massage businesses, address human trafficking and strengthen enforcement tools for the Oregon Board of Massage Therapists.
Why it matters: Supporters said the bill targets illegal, unlicensed storefronts that function as trafficking hubs and harms vulnerable workers; they argued stronger penalties, public notices and mandatory‑reporter status for licensed massage therapists will deter operators and improve victim identification and services. Witnesses from law enforcement, survivor advocates and professional associations testified in favor. Committee members pressed sponsors about safeguards for immigrant communities and due process.
"Human trafficking must not continue in our backyard," Representative Thuy Tran told…
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