A federal court in Tampa, Fla., last week upheld a restrictive law governing sexually oriented businesses in Hillsborough County. The regulations forbid alcohol in strip clubs, close contact between patrons and dancers, and private viewing booths in video stores.
Family groups are celebrating because the law provides a solid model for other states to follow. Scott Bergthold with AdultBusinessLaw.com said restrictions on sex shops are catching on.
"The trend is in favor of local governments to regulate and restrict adult businesses to prevent the negative secondary effects they cause," he told Family News in Focus.
Phil Burress, president of Citizens for Community Values in Ohio, said courts tend to accept outside research that proves the adverse effects sex shops have on communities.
"That sends a very strong message across America," he said, "that we can do something to cut down on the crime - especially prostitution - that goes on inside sexually oriented businesses."
