Texas Senate Bill SB766

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to sexually oriented businesses, including a requirement to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify, and restricting the age of persons employed by or allowed on the premises; creating criminal offenses.

Impact

The enactment of SB 766 will have significant implications for state laws regarding the operation of sexually oriented businesses. It specifically amends several existing codes, including the Labor Code and the Alcoholic Beverage Code, to impose stricter age limits and introduce criminal penalties for non-compliance with E-verify registration. Local law enforcement and regulatory agencies are given more authority to inspect records and enforce these rules, which could lead to increased scrutiny of businesses operating within this sector.

Summary

Senate Bill 766 is a legislative proposal that focuses on the regulation of sexually oriented businesses in Texas. The bill mandates that such businesses participate in the federal E-verify program to confirm the employment eligibility of their workers. Additionally, the bill raises the minimum age for employees and patrons at these establishments from 18 to 21 years, aiming to better protect minors from exposure to adult content and environments. By instituting these changes, the bill seeks to establish stricter oversight on sexually oriented operations and enhance their compliance with state and federal laws.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 766 is divided, reflecting the broader societal debate on the nature and regulation of adult entertainment. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step towards safeguarding minors and ensuring that sexually oriented businesses do not exploit younger individuals. However, opponents express concerns about the potential overreach of state regulations into local governance, questioning whether such measures could disproportionately impact legitimate businesses and personal freedoms.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between protecting minors and the rights of businesses. Critics of the bill may argue that raising the employment age and implementing stringent verification processes could hinder job opportunities and infringe on the autonomy of local jurisdictions to manage such matters as they see fit. This debate mirrors larger discussions around workplace regulations and the role of government oversight in private enterprise, particularly in areas of adult content where community standards and perceptions vary widely.