GA Bill Would Require Posting of Human Trafficking Notices in Massage Establishments

Georgia House Bill 141 was recently introduced in the state legislature. If passed, the bill would require that all establishments that offer massage or bodywork services by a massage therapist must post a notice (1) in the establishment’s restroom and (2) near the establishment’s entrance or in another conspicuous location, which contains specified information about human trafficking and contact information for the National Human Trafficking Resource Center. The notice would have to be 8 ½ inches by 11 inches in size. The state Department of Public Safety would make the specific text of the notice available for download on its website by August 1, 2013. Any person who failed to comply with the posting requirement would first be notified in writing by law enforcement of his or her noncompliance. A failure to correct the violation within 30 days would then result in a misdemeanor conviction and fine of up to $500, with subsequent offenses punishable by a fine of up to $1000 and up to 30 days imprisonment. We will keep you apprised of any developments regarding this bill.