SPRINGFIELD, Illinois (WICS) — A Springfield alderman has responded to concerns about a recent ordinance passed by the Springfield City Council.

New regulations for massage parlors were implemented in June, which include requiring these businesses to register with the city and have state employee licenses.

It came after an investigation into two Springfield massage parlors suspected of prostitution and sex trafficking.

Councilwoman Jennifer Notariano walked NewsChannel20 through how the city is implementing the new ordinance.

Notariano said that in late summer, the city sent massage establishments a notice of the request. The city gave the businesses 45 days to respond and submit an application. Now those applications are processed and inspected.

Notariano said he understands there is some frustration that the process seems to be moving slowly.

“As this is a new role for everyone working through the application process and the inspection process, we don’t yet know how long it will take. Once we get a better idea of ​​how long it will take to put this up. policy in practice, then we will be able to be more transparent,” Notariano said.

More than 50 units have applied and are now going through the inspection process. Only a few licenses have been issued so far.

Notariano said if a business violates any part of the ordinance, the city will ask the authority to close those businesses during the investigation.

If a business loses its license and is closed, the mayor will make the final decision on whether the business can reopen or reapply for a license.

Notariano said the city will close the businesses as soon as possible.