Sex business bill moves forward

State lawmakers are considering a bill which imposes new regulations on sexually-oriented businesses.  The bill bans full nudity, keeps dancers six feet from customers, prohibits dancers from touching customers and forces businesses to close from midnight to 6 a.m.  New adult businesses could not be within 1,000 feet of a school, church, park, library or daycare.

Those for the bill say sexually-oriented businesses bring problems to communities.

“There’s really some negative effects when these businesses cluster together,” said Rep. Steve Brunk (R-Bel Aire).  “Crime, drug use and prostitution as well as property values go down.”

But some business owners disagree.  John Samples owns Club Orleans in Topeka.  He says he runs a safe business and is upset at what he calls stereotypes about the industry.  He says if passed, this bill would have a significant impact on the Kansas economy.

“I pay more than $200,000 in taxes and my payroll is $900,000,” said Samples.  “That doesn’t count the earnings of the more than the 100 entertainers I employ.”

Attorney Charlie O’Hara represents Michelle’s Beach House in Derby.  O’Hara says the bill isn’t about morals or ethics but rather politics.

“Anyone running for office has to think twice before they vote for nude dancing because they will be criticized,” said O’Hara.

The bill is set for a vote in the House Wednesday.  If passed, it goes to a Senate committee for debate.