TDLR Orders First-Ever Emergency Closure of Houston Massage Parlor for Suspected Human Trafficking

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has issued a six-month emergency closure order for Hsin Wei Chen and Foot Reflexology Star in Houston, effective May 30, 2024, due to suspected human trafficking. This marks the first emergency closure under the authority granted by House Bill 3579, authored by Rep. Ben Bumgarner and sponsored by Sen. Phil King, which was passed by the 88th Texas Legislature.

The new law, effective since September 1, 2023, empowers TDLR’s executive director to issue an emergency order to halt operations of any massage establishment if there is a belief that human trafficking is occurring.

Rep. Ben Bumgarner commented, “Human traffickers belong behind bars, and their victims deserve a chance at a new life. I pledge to work hand in hand with TDLR and law enforcement to bring sex and human traffickers to justice.”

A recent TDLR inspection at 10801 Spring Cypress Road, Suite 12, revealed several indicators suggesting human trafficking activities. The establishment’s owner has a history of similar enforcement issues with TDLR.

TDLR Interim Director Brian E. Francis stated, “TDLR employees are on the front lines in the fight against human trafficking in Texas. With this law, we will work with local law enforcement to take the fight to these traffickers and root out these destructive crimes against vulnerable people.”

Anyone who suspects human trafficking is occurring can contact the National Hotline for Human Trafficking at 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733). If the situation is an emergency or you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911 and alert the authorities.

You can also file a complaint on a TDLR-regulated business that you suspect may be participating in human trafficking.