Hi everyone.This may be a bit heavy for my first post, and I'm not sure if this is the right place, but here goes...
There is a bill that just passed (3/23/2005) the Florida Senate unanimously... It's now headed over to the House for approval which it will undoubtedly get. It goes into effect on July 1, 2005. It's kinda scary.![]()
To check it out, go to www.flsenate.gov, look on the left side of the page, and jump to bill 730. I suggest starting with the "Staff Analysis." It describes the change pretty well.
Basically, it was created because of the incident in Pasco County where a judge thew out a case against dancers because no one would testify that they were offended except the undercover officer and they don't count under current law. The bill now allows the arresting police oficer to testify that he/she was offended, thereby making it a "lewd" act, and force the arrest to stick.
Doing a little scouting on the web points out that this new bill will affect strip clubs, dance clubs (Ie. The way you are dancing is offensive), Public Beaches (Ie. That bathing suit is too revealing), and even events like Spring Break, Fantasy Fest and Bike Week.![]()
Note the punishment, if convicted, too... In Florida, it's up to 60 days in jail and $500 fine (misdemeanor of the second degree) for first offence and ramping up from there. It targets Owners, Dancers, Customers, and anyone else that even knowingly enters anywhere that promotes "lewd" behavior.
What's happening to the country lately in the last few years? Or has it always been like this and I've just never cared to notice it?
Also, what's your take on the bill? Am I just reading it wrong?



This may be a bit heavy for my first post, and I'm not sure if this is the right place, but here goes...
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