Human Trafficking Bill Among Nearly 30 Cooper Signs Into Law

Increased efforts to discourage human trafficking in North Carolina are among one of nearly 30 additional bills that Gov. Roy Cooper has signed into law.

The list of bills Cooper has enacted means fewer than 50 remain on his desk from the end of the most recent General Assembly session. The governor has until July 30th to sign or veto the measures. Any remaining legislation will become law without his signature.

The new human trafficking law makes the crime a more severe felony. It also expands a licensure system for massage and bodywork therapy establishments and requires the therapists to obtain statewide privilege licenses.

Human trafficking prevention experts say the businesses sometimes are used as a front for illegal sexual activities involving women held against their will.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.