News First investigation leads to legislation debate
Story By: Nicole Vandeputte
Source: KOAA
Debate is now starting on a bill at the state capitol, that was prompted by a News First investigation. We've shown you prostitution is happening inside some El Paso county massage parlors.
As a result of these stories, Representative Buffie McFadyen (D- Pueblo West), and Senator Chris Romer (D- Denver), are sponsoring a bill that would require massage therapists be licensed by the state.
Current law allows municipalities to require licenses for massage therapists, but counties don't have that authority. It was in El Paso county that News First found prostitution at several massage parlors.
Rep. McFadyen says, "We need to stop prostitution in neighborhoods. I believe that giving law enforcement tools to go into massage parlors, to check and see if they, indeed, have licenses will help crack down on prostitution."
Sen. Romer agrees. He says, "I think this is a good government bill. Every once in awhile government regulation helps a lot. This is a place where government can do some good." The first public hearing on this bill is expected next week.
