Texas House Bill HB3520

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to restrictions on the age of persons employed by or allowed on the premises of a sexually oriented business; creating a criminal offense.

Impact

The implications of HB 3520 include a significant tightening of the legal framework governing sexually oriented businesses, particularly in how they manage and supervise the presence of minors. By establishing clear legal standards and penalties, the bill aims to eliminate any ambiguity regarding the legality of minors being employed or present in these establishments. This could lead to an increased level of scrutiny over sexually oriented businesses and their hiring practices, potentially influencing operational models within this industry statewide.

Summary

House Bill 3520 aims to impose restrictions on the employment of individuals under the age of 18 in sexually oriented businesses and prohibits their presence on such premises. This bill seeks to amend existing laws under the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code and the Business & Commerce Code, clearly defining the penalties for violations of these regulations, including license suspensions and potential criminal offenses. The proposed changes reflect an effort to enhance protections for minors by ensuring they do not have exposure to potentially harmful environments associated with sexually oriented businesses.

Sentiment

General sentiment around the bill appears to be positive among advocates for child protection, who see it as a necessary step toward safeguarding youth from exposure to adult-oriented environments. However, there are concerns voiced by some business owners about the stringent requirements and potential operational challenges. The sentiment is not entirely uniform, as industry representatives express fears of overly restrictive regulations that could harm their business viability.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention include the balance between protecting minors and the operational realities of sexually oriented businesses. Proponents of the bill argue that the safety and well-being of children should take precedence, suggesting that stricter regulations are needed to protect them from inappropriate environments. Conversely, opponents might raise concerns about potential overreach and how these regulations could adversely affect legitimate businesses and their ability to operate within the confines of the law.