A federal judge in Florida has paused a lawsuit challenging a new state law that prohibits individuals under 21 from working as strippers in adult entertainment venues. This decision comes as a similar case involving a Jacksonville ordinance is pending appeal.
The lawsuit, filed by two strip club operators, a dancer, and an adult novelty store, argues that the age restriction violates the First Amendment rights of the workers.
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They claim the law is not narrowly tailored and lacks evidence connecting adult entertainment establishments to human trafficking, the issue the law aims to address.
However, Judge Allen Winsor has stayed the case, acknowledging the similarities between the state law and the Jacksonville ordinance currently under review by the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The appeals court’s decision in the Jacksonville case could provide guidance on key issues in the broader challenge to the state law.
Florida lawmakers and Governor DeSantis enacted the age restriction earlier this year, arguing it is necessary to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable young people from exploitation. The law makes it a felony to employ or allow dancers under 21 to perform in strip clubs.
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This legal battle highlights the debate surrounding age restrictions in the adult entertainment industry, with questions raised about First Amendment rights, worker protection, and the effectiveness of such laws in addressing human trafficking. The outcome of the Jacksonville case could significantly impact the future of this law in Florida.
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