Bill banning public adult cabarets passes Senate vote

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Tennessee Senate members convened on February 9 and passed a bill that would make adult-oriented public performances a crime.

The bill (SB0003) would make it a criminal offense for anyone who engages in an adult cabaret performance on public property, specifically in view of minors.

The bill specifically focuses on public performances that feature “topless dancers, go-go dancers, exotic dancers, strippers, male or female impersonators who provide entertainment that appeals to prurient interest.”

The first offense would be a Class A misdemeanor, with all subsequent violations treated as a Class E felony. The State Senate passed the bill after a 26-6 vote.

The bill will have to be approved by the House before going to the governor’s desk.

The House Criminal Justice Committee recommended the bill for approval and it is now up for discussion by the Calendar and Rules Committee.

If passed, the bill would take effect on April 1.

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