Massage parlor generic image

Massage parlor generic image. (WDRB Photo)

WDRB Google Preferred Source Asset

See more WDRB reporting in Google Search

Add WDRB as a preferred source on Google to ensure that local news and weather from WDRB appears more often in Top Stories when relevant to your search.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Louisville leaders said new rules for massage businesses are helping crack down on human trafficking, but some business owners said the changes are taking a toll.

The ordinance requires massage businesses to obtain a city license, including background checks for owners and business partners.

Metro Council members said Thursday that the regulations have already led to several arrests, though Louisville Metro Police hasn't released details about those cases.

At Thursday night's Metro Council meeting, one massage business owner said the requirements became too costly and difficult to meet, forcing him to close his business.

"Full enforcement of this ordinance will not only squelch my business but will have adverse effects on other healthcare providers who will no longer refer to us," Lance Minnis said.

He also told council members he knows of at least three other massage businesses that have closed since the ordinance took effect.

Copyright 2026 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.

Â