Relating to the presence of a minor on the premises of a sexually oriented business that is permitted or licensed under the Alcoholic Beverage Code; creating a criminal offense.
This bill introduces a new provision in the Alcoholic Beverage Code by adding Section 106.17, which directly addresses the issue of minors in locations deemed sexually oriented businesses. The enactment of this legislation would create new responsibilities for the business operators to ensure that minors are not allowed on their premises. Consequently, it impacts how these establishments operate and enforce age restrictions, which may lead to additional training and compliance measures for staff.
House Bill 2239 seeks to regulate the presence of minors in sexually oriented businesses by prohibiting their access to such establishments that are permitted or licensed under the Alcoholic Beverage Code. The legislation establishes a clear guideline that prohibits minors from being on the premises of these businesses, thereby aiming to protect young individuals from exposure to adult-oriented environments. The bill's intent is to enhance the safety and well-being of minors in the state of Texas.
Notably, one point of contention surrounding this bill relates to enforcement and the implications it may have for both business owners and minors. Critics may argue that the enforcement of this legislation could lead to unwarranted consequences for businesses that inadvertently allow minors on their premises, further complicating compliance with state regulations. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the adequacy of existing measures to protect minors and whether further regulations are necessary or effective.