Bills would regulate Kentucky ‘adult-oriented businesses’

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) — Two new pieces of legislation were introduced at the Capitol Tuesday.

If passed, Senate Bill 147 and House Bill 402 would enact stricter regulations on adult-oriented businesses.

Sen. Lindsey Tichenor (R-Ky.) and Rep. Nancy Tate (R-Ky.) stood side by side as they announced their new legislation to regulate adult-oriented businesses in Kentucky.

Last year, Senate Bill 115 was filed in an attempt to regulate these businesses, but it failed to pass through the House.

“What’s different about this bill, any infringement on the regulations, the business would be held liable. In SB 115, it was the performer that was held liable,” said Tichenor.

Both Tichenor and Tate say they are hopeful these bills will pass so they can protect vulnerable and susceptible children from the adult entertainment industry.

“For decades, minors under the age of 18 have been protected from sexual activity, sexual materials and sexual performances. This language is a continuance in the spirit of these public protections,” said Tate.

A major topic of discussion was how this bill might affect drag shows. Tichenor says unless the shows fall under the bill’s definition of sexually explicit content, it should not affect them.

“If there is an intention with the drag business to expose children to sexually explicit content then I think this bill is much needed,” said Tichenor.

Some of the framework includes requiring businesses to be at least 933 feet away from any child-related places. It would also restrict what is visible to minors and give counties their discretion and authority.