Lawmakers hear calls to regulate illicit massage businesses and improve anti‑trafficking tools (HB 405)

Rep. Erica Leon opened a public hearing on HB 405, asking the committee to create a study committee to propose tools to address so‑called illicit massage businesses that, witnesses said, often mask human trafficking.

Local officials, town councillors and economic-development staff from Derry, New London and other towns described storefronts with covered windows, alleged on‑site sexual activity, and landlords who accept cash leases. Police and Homeland Security task‑force officers told the committee such venues are difficult to investigate and prosecute under current state law: victims and witnesses are often controlled, victims fear deportation, and abuse is often concealed. Task‑force officers from Homeland Security Investigations urged stronger licensing, stiffer penalties for operators, and better coordination with towns and building officials.

Victim‑service organizations including the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence and the state's Human Trafficking Collaborative Task Force urged licensing oversight, higher penalties for facilitation, and resources for victim services. Several municipalities described local ordinances they had tried with limited success; witnesses recommended state tools that would allow landlords and licensing authorities to act when operators refuse access or evidence suggests illicit activity.

Supporters urged an all‑of‑the‑above approach: licensing and permitting changes, targeted enforcement, landlord remedies (lease termination language), and resources for prosecution and victim services. Multiple witnesses said they preferred immediate action over another interim study.

The chair announced a subcommittee on HB 405 (members named: chair, Representative Rhodes, Rep. Newell, Rep. Murray).