Motels in Houston that make it easy for prostitutes and their clients to conduct business will now be held accountable for illegal sexual transactions.

Associated Press reports that the Houston City Council unanimously approves the new rule that prevents motels from knowingly issuing rooms for sex.

Capt. Steve Jett, head of the police department's vice division, says that some motels stay in business by renting to prostitutes and at times will make a profit.

"This gives us an opportunity for us to go in there and tell them to clean up their act."

Violating the ordinance would lead to a maximum $2,000 fine.