Texas Senate Bill SB1866

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the employment of certain individuals at a sexually oriented business.

Impact

The provisions of SB1866 amend specific sections of the Civil Practice and Remedies Code, Labor Code, and Penal Code, imposing stricter penalties and requiring businesses to ensure compliance through potential inspections by local law enforcement and regulatory agencies. This means that businesses will have to adopt more rigorous hiring practices and maintain proper records to avoid penalties for employing underage individuals or facing additional scrutiny from enforcement agencies. The implications of this change are likely to be significant for businesses that previously employed younger individuals in these roles.

Summary

Senate Bill 1866 aims to modify existing regulations concerning the employment of individuals at sexually oriented businesses. One significant change introduced by the bill is the increase in the minimum age for employment at these businesses from 18 to 21 years. This adjustment is designed to enhance protections for younger individuals from potentially exploitative work environments, emphasizing the need to safeguard minors from exposure to adult-oriented industries. By setting this age limit, SB1866 directly impacts how sexually oriented businesses operate and the demographics of their workforce.

Contention

While supporters of the bill argue that it is a necessary step for child protection and aligns labor laws with societal expectations regarding youth employment, there are counterarguments regarding its potential impact on the workforce of sexually oriented businesses. Critics may claim that the bill could drive some of these businesses to operate in more clandestine manners, reducing oversight and protections if they feel compelled to sidestep new regulations. Moreover, concerns about the potential economic impact on these businesses and their employees who may rely on work in this sector highlight the complexities of reforming labor laws pertaining to sexually oriented industries.