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SR 122

GOVERNMENTAL REGULATIONS: Requests local governing authorities to adopt abatement of public nuisances ordinances to deter illicit businesses, including massage therapy establishments operating without a license or engaging in criminal acts.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Beth Mizell

Louisiana Senate requests local governments adopt nuisance abatement ordinances targeting unlicensed massage businesses and criminal operations to combat trafficking and exploitation.

Enrolled. Signed by the President of the Senate and sent to the Secretary of State by the Secretary of the Senate on 6/5/2025.
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Bill Summary · SR 122

Legislative bill overview

SR 122 is a Senate Resolution requesting that Louisiana's local governing authorities develop and adopt ordinances to abate public nuisances, with specific focus on unlicensed massage therapy establishments and those engaged in criminal activity. The resolution does not create binding law but rather encourages municipalities to take regulatory action in this area.

Why is this important

Unlicensed massage businesses have been documented as fronts for human trafficking and sexual exploitation in many jurisdictions. This resolution attempts to empower local governments with a policy framework to address these establishments through nuisance abatement laws, which can be faster and less resource-intensive than criminal prosecution. The measure reflects growing recognition of trafficking concerns while delegating implementation authority to local officials who understand community-specific needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional ambiguity: The resolution doesn't clearly define what constitutes an "illicit business" or specify evidentiary standards, potentially leading to inconsistent or overly broad local enforcement that could affect legitimate massage therapy businesses
  • Due process concerns: Nuisance abatement ordinances sometimes operate with lower legal thresholds than criminal law, raising questions about whether business owners receive adequate opportunity to challenge allegations before closure
  • Enforcement disparities: Without statewide standards, some jurisdictions may aggressively target massage establishments while others do minimal enforcement, creating unequal application across Louisiana

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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