By The Associated Press & Kim Wilhelm – KWCH 12 Eyewitness News
The Kansas House has approved restrictions on strip clubs, adult video stores and other sexually oriented businesses.
The vote Wednesday was 91-28 and sent the proposed Community Defense Act to the Senate.
he bill would prohibit new sexually oriented businesses within 1,000 feet of the property line of existing similar businesses or any school, library, day care center or house of worship.
There would be a “no touch” rule for employees and customers, but strip clubs and adult cabarets could still serve alcohol. Semi-nude dancers at clubs would have to keep at least 6 feet away from customers.
Supporters of the bill say they’re trying to protect communities from problems associated with adult businesses. Critics question whether the bill is in line with majority Republicans’ philosophy of smaller government.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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Original Story, March 8
State lawmakers are considering a bill which imposes new regulations on sexually-oriented businesses. The bill bans full nudity, keeps dancers six feet from customers, prohibits dancers from touching customers and forces businesses to close from midnight to 6 a.m. New adult businesses could not be within 1,000 feet of a school, church, park, library or daycare.
Those for the bill say sexually-oriented businesses bring problems to communities.
“There’s really some negative effects when these businesses cluster together,” said Rep. Steve Brunk (R-Bel Aire). “Crime, drug use and prostitution as well as property values go down.”
But some business owners disagree. John Samples owns Club Orleans in Topeka. He says he runs a safe business and is upset at what he calls stereotypes about the industry. He says if passed, this bill would have a significant impact on the Kansas economy.
“I pay more than $200,000 in taxes and my payroll is $900,000,” said Samples. “That doesn’t count the earnings of the more than the 100 entertainers I employ.”
Attorney Charlie O’Hara represents Michelle’s Beach House in Derby. O’Hara says the bill isn’t about morals or ethics but rather politics.
“Anyone running for office has to think twice before they vote for nude dancing because they will be criticized,” said O’Hara.
The bill is set for a vote in the House Wednesday. If passed, it goes to a Senate committee for debate.
