HB 1194 -- SEXUALLY ORIENTED SIGNS

SPONSOR:  Pearce

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass" by the Committee on Tourism
and Cultural Affairs by a vote of 12 to 2 with 3 present.

This bill prohibits billboards or other advertising signs for an
adult cabaret or sexually oriented business within one mile of
any state highway.  Businesses located within one mile of a state
highway may display a maximum of two exterior signs on the
premises.  The bill specifies the size and information allowed on
the sign.

Existing signs which do not conform to this requirement may be
allowed to continue as a nonconforming use but must be made to
conform within three years.

Adult cabarets and sexually oriented businesses are prohibited
from allowing persons under 21 years old to physically place
their advertising signs and billboards.

Any violation of the bill is a class C misdemeanor.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on state funds in FY 2005, FY 2006, and
FY 2007.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that this type of advertising is
distasteful and inappropriate and gives the wrong impression to
those traveling through Missouri.

Testifying for the bill were Representatives Pearce and Skaggs;
Philip Green; Missouri Family Network; Missouri Baptist
Convention; and Christian Life Commission.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

OTHERS:  Others testifying on the bill say many outdoor
advertising industries do not accept or allow this kind of
advertising in their business but do have concerns with mandatory
legislation.

Others testifying on the bill was Missouri Outdoor Advertising
Association.

Robert Triplett, Legislative Analyst

Missouri House of Representatives
92nd General Assembly, 2nd Regular Session
Last Updated September 23, 2004 at 11:14 am