Commonwealth Policy Center

Two Republican lawmakers are sponsoring a bill that would restrict sexually oriented businesses in Kentucky. The bills proposed by Sen. Lindsey Tichenor (R-Smithfield) and Rep. Nancy Tate (R-Brandenburg) would restrict strip clubs, porn shops, and drag shows in public. Specifically, it would create a buffer zone between them and schools. Tate said that “HB 402’s primary goal is to protect Kentucky’s children, and to create boundaries for businesses aimed at entertaining adults in a manner that is inappropriate for children.” Now, preserving the health, safety, and welfare of the community is an important role of government. These proposals also protect our children from exposure to sexually explicit advertisements and activity, including drag performances in public square. If the bill passes, it will be the first ever statewide restrictions on these types of businesses.